Photo credit: Janet Donovan
“This is a groundbreaking day for me because of Connie (Esther’s daughter). This is the first time in my entire life I have worn a screaming loud tie to a memorial service,” bantered President Bill Clinton lightheartedly at the Celebration of Life service for Esther at the U.S. Institute of Peace. “I thought of really doing it up. I had some real loud socks that President Bush 41 gave me. I was going to wear them because they sort of went with this. Finally I looked in the mirror and I said, ‘Show some restraint.'” Guests were encouraged to wear vibrant clothing in honor of her preferences. We did.
Kandie Stroud with Tom McMillen
Ambassador Coopersmith was a distinguished diplomat known for her influential contributions to international relations and diplomacy. Her diplomatic acumen and commitment to humanitarian causes earned her widespread respect and admiration on the world stage. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of diplomats and advocates, reflecting her enduring impact on global diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. On a personal level, she is remembered for her warmth, generosity and ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds marked by inclusivity. From the many women she took under her wing, we thank her for years of amazing memories.
There is no alternative summary that captures the breadth of her activities, so please refer to the following link where you can explore parts of her life – a kind of multiple choice.
However, we would like to highlight several that are particularly worth reading. One is from an Inaugural Series where she takes us behind the scenes with President Bill Clinton whom she took out of Arkansas and put into the White House.
Interview by Janet Donovan. Filming and editing by Chris Brown & Brendan Kownacki
The other is her 90th Birthday party at her home in the tony Kalorama neighborhood in Washington, DC with friends and family that included Supreme Court Justices, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, bi-partisan Congressional Members.
Rembrance: A life well lived and not forgotten.
