By Michael Kennedy
The Senator Mitch McConnell and Secretary Elaine L. Chao Archives and Civic Education Gallery opened last week in the basement of the Ekstrom Library. The gallery is over 2,000 square feet, and features memorabilia from the childhoods of McConnell and Chao, as well as videos and information about the American government.
McConnell is currently the Senate minority leader, and is the longest serving senator from Kentucky. He graduated from the University of Louisville in 1964. Chao, McConnell’s wife, was the secretary of labor from 2001 to 2009, and the first Asian-American woman appointed to a presidential cabinet position.
The archives were dedicated on Nov. 11, by McConnell, Chao, Senator John McCain, Provost Shirley Willihnganz and U of L President Dr. James R. Ramsey. The grand opening was on Thursday, Nov. 12.
All told, the archives and gallery costs $3.6 million, and the university is seeking private donations to pay for the facility. David Jones, a co-founder of Humana, presented an unsolicited gift of $1 million at the dedication event, to help pay for the facility.
“These stories are told with the hope that they give hope and inspiration to those that live in this wonderful land, that allows anyone, of any background, who is willing to work hard, dream and never give up, to realize the American dream,” said Chao.
Both McConnell and Chao gave brief speeches at the dedication of the archives.
“Elaine and I share a life, and now we share an archive,” said McConnell. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. Although, if this place turns out anything like our closet space at home, I might end up with the short end of the stick.”
