Robert Kennedy remembers what it was like to be a Bronco. Kennedy graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Political Science and Public Law.
What do you do at the state Capitol? I represent various businesses, nonprofit associations, universities and community colleges as their legislative advocate and government affairs consultant.
How did you come to be in this business? Before becoming a professional consultant, I spent much of the 1990s working in the Michigan State Senate, including key positions as a legislative aide and as the special assistant to the assistant majority leader and later the majority floor leader.
What do you like best about your work? That I have been able to successfully and aggressively represent the government relations interests of a diverse list of clients ranging from small family businesses to blue chip Fortune 50 multinational conglomerates.
What challenges do you face working in the Capitol in 2011? The sheer number of public policy issues being addressed has increased significantly with the new Administration and under the leadership of a Republican-led House and Senate. In turn, the speed in which we must respond has become more of a challenge.
Who do you think will be the next president of the US? It is way too early to forecast this with any accuracy, but I think if the Republican’s select a candidate who can effectively communicate their vision for the future of this country and raise enough money to stay competitive with the incumbent then I would give the GOP the edge.
What is your advice for citizens who want to advocate for an issue in the state Capitol? Hire a lobbyist of course, but otherwise – be polite, be positive, and be brief.
Favorite campus activity or bronco memory? “Bronco Beach” in the Valleys and Hockey Games at Lawson Arena.
What do you miss most about Kalamazoo/WMU? The seemingly carefree days of living on campus and Saturdays at Waldo Stadium.
