Name: Jacquelin McKisson (Zhakleen).
Hometown: Alexandria, Virginia.
Time in Kyiv: 10 months.
What she is doing in Kyiv: Aiding the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration in nuclear nonproliferation and export control.
What she was doing when Ukraine declared its independence: Working as a camp counselor at a Pioneer camp in Russia. “Can’t say that I really remember the announcement – I was probably too shy marching around in my Pioneer uniform.
Future plans: Stay in Kyiv for another couple of years. “I’m hoping to land a federal slot with Department of Energy or another U.S. agency once my current contract expires in September.”
Greatest fear: Falling into one of the city’s Turkish toilets. “How come Ukraine could build missiles but not a decent toilet?”
Special talent: “Attracting non-English speaking men, married, over the age of 40, with bad teeth.”
First impression of Ukraine: The women all look like super-models. “Do any of them wear clothing larger than a size 2?”
Funniest Ukrainian experience: Going to a local salon to get eyebrow waxing, instead of a nice shaping. “The woman thought I wanted my eyebrows taken completely off! Fortunately, I stopped her in time.”
Most important characteristic of a significant other: Thoughtfulness.
One thing she can’t live without: Western-style washing machine. “Gray just isn’t my color.”
Best quality: “I’m almost always in a good mood.”
Worst quality: “I like to speak my mind. At times, I can be too honest and outspoken.”
How does she stay cool during the summer: Sipping an ice-cold Slavutych beer at the local cafe-bar.
Dream job: U.S. national security adviser.
Best place she’s traveled: Ring of Kerry, Ireland.
First job: Supervisor at a nursery with more than 20 children, aged newborn to 4 years. “Probably the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.”
Goal in life: Lead a good life, make lots of friends, and leave the world a little better than how she found it.
Best reason for staying in Ukraine: The U.S. tax write-off.
Best reason for leaving Ukraine: Samagon and salo.
Most proud of: Her 5-year old niece, Rosalie.
Least proud of: Being unable to help her family when crises arise because she’s so far away from home.
Favorite film: The Princess Bride. “Stop that rhyming, I mean it. Anybody got a peanut?”
Claim to fame: Her home is the former residence of U.S. President Gerald Ford.
Key to success in life: Work hard, be honest and don’t sacrifice your principles.
Pet peeve: People screaming into cell phones – completely indifferent to those around them.
First reaction when she receives a letter from her government: “How much is it going to cost me this time?”
Overindulgence: Taxi rides around Kyiv. “They’re just so cheap and convenient!”
Under-indulgence: Taking advantage of Kyiv’s many cultural attractions – museums, theaters, sporting events and holiday celebrations.
One place she could spend $1 million: I’d make a charitable contribution to Duke University. I owe my Alma Mater so much. If I could, I’d donate more than $1 million. Go Blue Devils!
