Theodore Roosevelt's philosophy to ‘get in the arena' and John Kennedy's call to service for what ‘you can do for your country' exemplify how you, Mark Shields, have distinguished yourself with the written word and a lifetime commitment to enhancing political life in the United States.
A son of Massachusetts educated at Notre Dame University, you left your liberal arts education in South Bend, Indiana, and have gone on to serve our country in the United States Marine Corps and in important roles on Capitol Hill. In nearly 40 political campaigns you worked for candidates and causes and sought to broaden political participation. Your skillful management of campaigns and keen understanding of Washington, D.C., have contributed to your effectiveness as a nationally syndicated columnist and one of our nation's most respected political analysts.
Author of books on national political issues and a highly sought-after speaker, your encyclopedic knowledge of politics combined with your brilliant wit make you an unmatched observer of our time.
Each weekend on PBS's “The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer,” your clear and insightful commentary betters our collective understanding of the workings of the federal government and policymakers. And as host of CNN's “The Capital Gang,” you translate the actions of lawmakers and place events in context while doing verbal battle with those who hold opposing viewpoints.
Your early career as a teacher has served you well for good journalists also teach. As citizens we are your students. And in Mark Shields we are fortunate to have a valued scholar of government. Students at Harvard University and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania have officially taken your courses – but we are all enlivened with your thoughtful commentary and television presence.
Off the television screen, you display noteworthy commitment to community service for which we also honor you today. As a volunteer with the underprivileged and orphaned children in Washington, D.C., you set an example for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s admonition that ‘everyone can be great because everyone can serve.'
Your service to the American public and your ability to analyze the issues of our day with historical understanding allows for more civic engagement and activism.