Description: (United States Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998)
Jean Kennedy Smith was a distinguished American diplomat, activist, humanitarian, and author. She notably served as the United States Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998, making significant contributions to the Northern Ireland peace process. Smith played a crucial role in securing a visa for Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams, which is thought to have influenced the Provisional IRA's decision to declare a ceasefire. Additionally, she founded Very Special Arts (VSA), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting arts engagement for individuals with disabilities. In recognition of her advocacy efforts, Smith was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.