Networks

Introduction

Good conversation about politics/government/economics is one of my favorite things. Passionate about the issues. Volunteer for Democratic candidates, keep up with the issues/attend another political discussion group. Would love to join you ladies!

Please tell us a little about yourself.

Have a passion for law, government, travel, music and good conversation. I graduated from the University of Texas Law School and the Masters program at the LBJ School at UT. Am fascinated with Constitutional law and the way our nation's principles are reflected in our laws. Worked as an attorney in Boston, as legislative counsel in the US Senate, as consultant to the Dept. of Labor and in other positions. Have travelled extensively: legal study tour of the Soviet Union, Europe, Australia and all around the US. Started my travels by going to San Fransico without enough money to get by on in order to see what I would do - What risks would I take? What options would I find? Really enjoy good conversation with informed and reflective people. Participate in a political/policy discussion group (One Fool at a Time) most Saturday nights. Mostly Democrats and enough Republicans to make it really fun. Love music that speaks to my soul, non-fiction reading, public television and vegetarian food.

Why are you joining this group?

I really enjoy good conversation with informed and reflective people about politics and policy. Also enjoy the company of people who are passionate about social and political issues. Love to give my opinion. Am also good at listening and responding to what the other person said. And it would be really nice to meet women who are active and informed participants in our Democracy. I currently work with several good Democrats/organizations to promote our candidates and causes. Being a part of Liberal Ladies Who Lunch would enable me to increase my sphere of good Democrat friends and it sounds like fun!

This group is for TRUE liberals or progressives. Does that describe you?

I am grateful for the political and social acheivements that Progressives have made. They have made opportunity, equity and compassion a part of our national being. Michael Lux's thoughtful account of Progressive achievements can be found in his book, "The Progressive Revolution: How the Best in America Came to Be." It is required reading for all passionate Progressives. At the LBJ School, I studied the history, economics and law of labor with Prof. Ray Marshall, Secretary of Labor in the Carter Administration. Through my studies under Prof. Marshall and my own reading and exploration, I have gained an understanding of how the rules made by politicians shape the market and make opportunity and economic mobility a reality. I left a lucrative job as an attorney to pursue my passion for politics and shaping public policy. I was committed to making opportunity a reality through workforce policy in the US Senate, at the Department of Labor and at the Texas Workforce Commission.

Additional Information

"I do not know why my address appears as Richardson. I live in Dallas. Am an urban dweller."

What Valerie Kessner is saying about this Meetup Group

Wonderful company, nice women, down to earth, committed, informed, passionate.