Elliott School, GW lost one of its own

I read an article in the GW Hatchet in which staff writers Carly Lagrotteria and Eric Roper reported on the tragic and untimely death of GW alumnus, Brian Adkins (pictured). Adkins was a Foreign Service officer in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and he passed away this past February.

I came to know about Adkins from his former professors, particularly Ambassador David Shinn, a colleague who teaches at the Elliott School. I have also heard about him from a couple of his former classmates and friends. My students here at the Elliott School, knowing I am from Ethiopia, approached me when they heard the bad news. We discussed what might have happened, what might have gone wrong, and the issues, opportunities, and challenges inherent in living and working in a developing country.

As a person who has recently lost one of my own, I send to Dan Adkins and family my condolences and the strength to move on.

Brian, may you rest in peace!