From 1997 to 2000, I had the privilege of working for Sen. Leahy and directly under Tim Rieser.
Just like the senator, Tim always set an example for junior staff. He attended to the interests of Vermonters with the same commitment and care he devoted to conversations with heads of state. He was committed to his staff’s personal and professional growth — he taught me how to write, he demonstrated how to listen, and he wrote notes home to my parents telling them how much he appreciated my efforts.
It seems that he even cared about my physical fitness, as there wasn’t a week that went by when I wasn’t running after him full tilt as he sprinted through the halls of Congress to get to a meeting, the Senate floor, or to a hearing room to support the senator.
Sen. Leahy, Tim, and all of those who became part of the “Leahy family” over the years have made Vermont and the world a better place and I am grateful that I was given the opportunity to be a small part of those efforts.
Cara Thanassi
Shelburne