Daniel Patrick Moynihan, on Truth in Public Affairs
“The central conservative truth is that it is culture, not politics, that determines the success of a society. The central liberal truth is that politics can change a culture and save it from itself.”

 

Overview/South Coast Plaza

Assist business, nonprofit and public sector clients with governance, strategy, internal and external communications, project management, public affairs, and dispute resolution. Have served on USAID missions in Africa and Asia. Have assisted non-profits with board development, fundraising, and advocacy. Have helped to plan and entitle 7 million square feet for resort, commercial, residential, and arts venue projects — more than half that for the Segerstroms, owners of South Coast Plaza.

2014

Was in Egypt soon after the Arab Spring for two national elections, the first for a new constitution, the second for president. A grand experience, and unsettling: so many young people with no work.

2010-2011

In Afghanistan on a multinational observation mission during national elections. Spent time in the capital and also in remote and undeveloped areas.

2009-2010

In Zimbabwe with a local NGO providing technical assistance to a new prime minister after Harare had to abandon its currency. Discouraging to see a place making so little progress despite having so much going for it.

2008

In Pakistan when voters rejected both government- and mullah-backed candidates, choosing instead a familiar if flawed option. Amazing to consider that Pakistan prior to 1947 was part of India, now a bitter rival with a more robust economy and culture.

2005-2007

Coordinated successful campaign for congressional authorization and funding to clean up and restore a destabilized, polluted California watershed that runs from the mountains to the sea.

2003-2005

Coordinated successful campaign for congressional mandates and federal and state funding for transportation projects.

1994-2002

Elected to serve two four-year terms as a Laguna Beach, California city council member, and served two terms as mayor.

1990

Facilitated successful negotiations resolving a longstanding dispute among public and private litigants and other stakeholders concerning development in Laguna Canyon, CA. Directed 20-year bond campaign approved by 79.7 percent of voters to create the nation’s 2nd largest urban wilderness park.

1989

Helped manage media and special events for His Holiness the Dalai Lama of Tibet when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Events included a press conference and roundtables with scientific, business and political leaders.