While many students will be spending their Spring Breaks on the beach or other exotic locales, political science graduate student Steven Comerford plans to spend his in London representing the United States in a discussion on global security.
Comerford has been invited to discuss his recommendations on United Nations policy and reform at the International Conference on Nuclear Security: Global Directions for the Future, March 16-18 in London. It will also air on CNN.
Last year, Comerford wrote and submitted a proposal to the International Atomic Energy Agency that made recommendations on U.N. reform and global response to the threats of civil violence, weapons of mass destruction, poverty, diseases and terrorism.
Comerford presented his theories and suggestions to NASA, Congress and President George W. Bush’s Moon to Mars Commission in May.
Since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack, the Atomic Energy Agency has designed a conference that will allow the international community to gain a better understanding and awareness of global changes throughout the country.
“One of the primary goals of the proposal is to bring basic power into third world countries. The proposal will not only improve living standards in such areas as these, but will build better trust relations with the nation and the United Nations,” Comerford said.
Comerford said he thinks using stockpile weapons could help save the country money- $2.5 million that could be used to launch spacecraft and serve as fuel for nuclear reactors.
“Many people have negative perceptions regarding nuclear energy and other radioactive materials. It can be somewhat difficult in persuading them of some of its possible positive contributions toward society and humanity,” he said.
Comerford said he also thinks it is necessary to use this source to improve living conditions for people across the globe.
“The way of life for many people in third world countries is archaic,” he said. “They live by cavemen standards. Bringing nuclear energy as a means of basic power into homes will improve living conditions and provide a sense of stability.”
Comerford said he has been doubted by many of his friends and peers. He thinks being able to overcome life’s obstacles has enabled him to persevere and develop a plan that will better accommodate the needs of others.
“If people don’t stand up for what is right, things won’t get done,” he said. “Someone has to be willing to do it and I guess that someone would be me.”
Nyerere Tryman, political science and administration graduate student and long-time friend of Comerford, said: “Steven is always going out of his way to help others. I don’t believe that there’s a person out there that Steven doesn’t know and on top of that, he’s a real gentleman.”
“Steven is very articulate and tends to present ideas clearly and concisely. I never doubted his ability because he works very hard and is highly motivated,” said Edward Clynch, political science professor and graduate coordinator for the political science department.