With the pending retirement of Supreme Court Judge David Souter, President Obama has nominated a talented candidate: Puerto Rican Sonia Sotomayor.
Living with diabetes for close to five decades, Sotomayor also overcame social challenges being raised by her mother after her father passed away. With an academic pedigree that includes Princeton and Yale, a steady career in the judicial system followed. Aside from being a strong voice as a woman and Latina leader, these are some prominent characteristics she may bring to the Supreme Court if confirmed by the Senate:
1) Her passion is evident by showing she cares: Her pro bono work is impressive and she seems to have a true, deep passion for the law and the people it fights to protect. Her excellent memory contributes to her capabilities. Thus far, she has shown enthusiasm for making a difference in the world.
2) Good track record: Good leaders build their credibility one step at a time. An active participant in academic circuits as well as in law associations that are inclusive of her background and heritage, Sotomayor has sought to build a career with a steady pace. Being selected for this prominent position marks the pinnacle of a career marked by hard-work.
3) She tries to find a point of convergence: In a world often viewed in black-and-white, she is a self-declared centrist. She may look at the law based on a case by case basis rather than on a pre-determined methodology that predicts the outcome before any discussion takes place. While I appreciate knowing whether a judge is for or against any given subject (death penalty, abortion, etc.), I respect even more someone who is open-minded and ready to discuss the issues before making a final decision. As an interesting side note, she was selected by both George W. Bush and Bill Clinton; both Republicans and Democrats see value in her continued service.
4) Reaching beyond her humble origins: Sotomayor seems to have overcome the challenge of moving ahead and leaving a past behind. She has effectively integrated her humble beginnings and Hispanic roots with hard work as she moved up the Judicial ladder with effort, focus and persistence.
5) You see what you get: Sotomayor is described as straight forward and practical. At any time, but especially during these hard times, such an attitude is indispensable and refreshing.
Thoughts? Would you like to add other positive leadership attributes about this candidate?
