In the midst of a transition of Canadian ambassadors to the United States, outgoing ambassador Michael Wilson spoke to the Carleton community on Oct. 6 about his experience and the changes he witnessed during his time in Washington.
Wilson began his lecture, entitled “Reflections on momentous times in Washington,” by saying he would not simply be describing his role as ambassador, but rather discussing what he referred to as “embassy leave-behinds.”
“I want to speak about three momentous areas of change that I have witnessed while in Washington, which I fundamentally believe have altered the world that we live in,” Wilson said. “First, is escaping a great depression part two, and its perilous aftermath. Second, a transformative president and the changing role of government in the United States. And finally, the decline of the so-called uni-polar world.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper appointed Wilson, whose term expires on Oct. 9, to the position in 2006 after he had served more than 15 years in Parliament, including time as Minister of Finance, Industry, Science and Technology and International Trade, respectively. Wilson will be replaced by former Manitoba Premier Gary Doer.
“It was interesting to see a 30-year political veteran give his perspective on current social and economic problems of the day,” said first-year political science student Alexander MacKenzie.
The turnout was mostly made up of faculty, with few students in attendance.
“I was disappointed in the student turnout,” said second-year political science student Natalie Copps.
“These are things that students want to know and should know,” added second-year journalism student Ariel Hartman, who also attended the lecture.
The address was the 18th Dick, Ruth and Judy Bell Lecture, organized by the Faculty of Public Affairs. The annual lecture serves to honour the contributions of individuals to the political and public life of Canada.