User:Mfitty

Michael Shawn Fitzpatrick was born in Saint Louis, Missouri on August 12, 1970. He is a son, brother and member of a family of seven. At present day, he concerns himself with sociological forecasting, long term healthcare programs as well as State and National Politics. He is known to not only often reference old adages and quotes, but rather, he uses them for inspiration and direction, trying to live by them and use the core meanings of the expressions as products for maintaining high value and quality standards. Some of his favorite quotes are "your yesterday and today should not equal your tomorrow"...

Michael occasionally shares some of his thoughts expressed during past attempts to seek approval from established authorities. Here is his essay in support of acceptance to attend a conference... I want to attend The Leaders in Disability Policy Program because…

Due to my injury years 4 years ago, I have firsthand knowledge of the need to improve access and opportunities for disabled persons. My life mission is now to advocate for, empower and assist persons with disabilities however and whenever possible. I really believe that I am a perfect candidate for this program. I am confident the skills I will acquire in the “Leaders in Disability Program” will complement my talents and further expand my capacity to positively impact the disability community. Ultimately, I plan to either enter law school or graduate school for public policy, therefore I also believe this opportunity will provide clarity in making this critical life decision. My previous experiences and interests in politics have provided me a foundation to build upon while engaging in your program. For example, my involvement and participation in politics are deeply rooted in my experience and education dating back to my adolescence in my hometown, St. Louis, Missouri. I have my mother to thank for that. At the age of 12 I was going door-to-door passing out leaflets and flyers for City Aldermen and other City Candidates running for office in St. Louis. My Mother was a well-connected and avid citizen who fought for change and particularly, to institute the desegregation movement in Missouri. It is only now as an adult -and creating this statement for you- that I realize that I have her to thank for the incessant babbling at the dinner table and forcing me to go sit quietly with her at meetings and events. I now suppose that the root of what was instilled in me as an end result turns out to be my true passion and patronage for democracy and the American style politics and campaigning that I so dearly love and embrace. From my adolescence I went on to serve my country as a mechanic in Aviation in The U.S. Navy. Immediately following the service I enrolled into a community college where after I achieved a 3.6 GPA during my freshman year. I then applied and was accepted into Saint Louis University, a Jesuit School, but more importantly, it was one of the best Universities in the state of Missouri. I was in a dual degree program for Political Science and Modern Language. Due to my fraternal affiliation, I was heavily courted by the Young Republicans, so I ended up frequenting their meetings as well as the Young Democrats, although neither ever got my commitment. I have always cherished this aspect of America’s political system. I feel there are both good, earthmoving politicians, as well those of the self-serving ilk, whom may be found serving on the Left or the Right of the aisle. One side does not make all of the laws, nor does one have all of the power. I typically find myself agreeing with both parties most of the time. I spoke publicly in local politics on April 18, 2006. I appeared before the Montgomery County Board of Council Members to request funding for our organization. I provided testimony highlighting the barriers disabled persons face while transitioning to the community from a nursing home. That was a relevant experience that only heightened and left a craving in my belly for additional training and involvement in politics and policy. In this new state of Maryland that I have moved to and now call my own, I have so much to learn about its politics and its political system. I am an active person who likes to write, speak, and get out in the community to be of use to organizations, myself and others. I am also passionate about numerous causes and various political platforms. Now that I am personally familiar with challenges for disabled persons and the disability community, I am more committed than ever to expand my capacity to help those with disabilities. In fact, it is my top priority. I want to be as useful and helpful as I can possibly be for others and for myself. I know that I am a perfect candidate for this program. I am confident I will excel in your program and will greatly benefit from it. I am also positive that upon transitioning from the program, I will have the talent and determination to use my new skills to the fullest.

Michael is bilingual, as he speaks Spanish and English