CAMP DARBY, Italy – U.S. Consul General Daniela Ballard recently visited Livorno Elementary Middle School (LEMS) to share insights from her diplomatic career and inspire the next generation of global citizens.
“She provided such a unique and rich conversation with the kids,” said LEMS teacher Villet Ferreri. “She provided the students with so many personal life lessons - taking risks, finding your passions, not letting others limit your beliefs and dreaming big."
LEMS students expressed enthusiasm and curiosity, asking questions about diplomatic responsibilities, travel experiences, and required skills.
“It was really cool to see how she overcame obstacles in her career,” said Kyrie, an 8th grade student.
Connor, a seventh-grade student, said what stood out to him most was “how she stayed so true to her childhood dream to travel around the world and learn foreign languages.”
“I still love the fact that I get to live in Italy for my work,” Consul Gen. Ballard said. “I get to learn Italian for my work. I get to meet new people who have a completely different worldview, who don't take for granted the things that I take for granted.”
Consul Gen. Ballard encouraged students to dream big, to be open to new ideas, and to not let other people's imaginations limit what they can do.
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