Catherine Bertini is an Academy Fellow since 2001, professor, and former Executive Director with the World Food Programme. She was appointed to senior positions by three UN secretaries general and five US presidents.

Who or what inspired you to enter into public service?

My father who was a city councilor; The writings of Edmund Burke; The Gospel of Matthew, and attending a five day seminar for high school students interested in government and politics (when I was 15).

What is your favorite class you have ever taught or took and why?
Selling Skills, offered by Xerox; State & local govt/history classes in college; A girls Education class I taught graduate students that motivated many to begin their own programs for girls; and UN grad courses I taught that helped direct students to international careers

What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing public policy or public administration as a career?

1. Decide how much uncertainty you can handle to determine whether to pursue civil service or 'poltical' career and appointments 2. Be patient. 3. Interest in issues swing in and out with policy makers. When the issue you care most about is on the upswing, pounce on it.

What area of public policy interests you the most and why?

Gender- because it is important and because it still doesn't get the attention it should at national or international levels; 2. food security - because we COULD ensure everyone has food but we haven't; 3 UN - because we must have a place for global dialogue, even if it isn't always as effective as we would like

What is your favorite hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time?

Listening to music - classical, jazz, show, and older popular music

Who in your life has been an influential mentor or inspiration for you?

Mary Ann T. Fish, a life long mentor; Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, first U.S. woman doctor, who proved that women could do anything but it might be a tough road.

What was your dream job as a child? Drum majorette!