U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink Visits Cate School

“Putin’s war goes beyond the territory of Ukraine. It includes weaponizing information, energy, and food to achieve his brutal ends. Through its use of disinformation – using social media platforms and mainstream media to create false narratives and claims — Russia uses our own commitment to free media and open debate in an attempt to undermine democracies in Europe, America, and across the globe,” said Ambassador Brink.

Cate School played host to the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink during the School’s annual Fall Family Weekend. Brink delivered a keynote address where she shared her journey of world service through her role as ambassador and how her work has impacted the world around her – all with hope as the backbone of the experiences and harsh realities that she witnessed.

“If you remember one thing of what I say today, remember this: every single one of you has the power to affect your life and those around you, to shape events and the future, to have an impact on our world,” said Ambassador Brink.

Brink is the parent of current Cate senior Jack Higgins. She delivered her address on day two of the three-day Fall Family Weekend at the School.

“It is great to be back at Cate, not only to be in this beautiful setting but most importantly to connect with my son, Jack, now in his senior year. Our family has moved so much over the past 26 years that we have to work hard to be together. And every time we are, I am reminded that we are bound as human beings by love – of family and friends, of community and country, and of the shared values that are deeply important to us and the kind of world in which we live in,” said Ambassador Brink.

Ambassador Brink began her remarks with an acknowledgment of the Ukrainian family in the audience that is a part of the Cate community. Through her 45-minute address, Ambassador Brink eloquently shared the impact that the current Ukraine-Russia conflict has on the world at large.

She underscored the value of education and how it both shapes values and provides resources to defend and advance those values in the greater world. “Here is where Cate, and educational institutions like it, are key to helping you develop the values, skills, and self-confidence to enter the fray in the never-ending effort to shape this world in which we all live. Whether you do this in government, business, or the arts, there are many ways to advance our shared values and be part of something larger than yourself.”

Ambassador Brink concluded her remarks with a clip of “My Shot” from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony-winning Broadway musical Hamilton.

“Alexander Hamilton’s story, and the history of the United States during the Revolutionary War, highlights themes that I have touched on today. Of hope. Of rising up against impossible odds. And of the enduring struggle for freedom in the face of a bigger and stronger power,” said Brink.