Meet New 1995 Society Inductee, Larry Gillheeney!
Meet New 1995 Society Inductee, Larry Gillheeney!
Larry Gillheeney is the director of advocacy for the Rhode Island Center for Freedom & Prosperity. He holds an advanced degree in International Relations from Salve Regina University, where he focused extensively on economic development and individual rights. Larry is the managing editor of the Ocean State Current, oversees the Fatima Fund and serves on the leadership council of the RI Catholic Foundation.
He’s has passionately worked with America’s Future for nearly a decade. In his ample spare time, he enjoys swimming, hiking, and Clint Eastwood movies.
He writes, “Young people are looking for truth and justice. We’ve just seen the horrors of an out of control government. We need a new generation of leaders to step up and make sure that never happens again. I’m excited to see all the things to come for this rising generation. You are invited to join us on this great adventure for freedom.”
What moment or opportunity in your life played the most significant part in getting you to where you are today?
Looking back on my career, it’s been incredible mentors who have gotten me to where I am today.
My career path hasn’t been conventional. I pieced together a lot of different things that shouldn’t work together, but somehow do. Doing one cool thing is okay, but why not five or six cool things?
I think when we look at the future of work, that’s what it will be. You build an awesome team and you take them with you from cool project to cool project.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far?
The flip side of having great mentors is you have to pass it on. Taking someone on to help grow is a massive decision.
I’ve failed as a mentor as many times as I’ve been successful. It’s very very hard, because you get wrapped up in someone’s life. Sometimes they let you down, and sometimes you let them down. There can be a lot of messiness, especially from your mentees, but that’s sort of the point.
The number one thing is patience. The number two thing is forgiveness.
What piece of work or accomplishment are you most proud of?
AF-NE, that’s an easy one.
In your words, what motivates your belief in freedom?
People.
What do you believe is the greatest challenge facing America today?
People.
What is the next big goal or project you’re working on? How can the AF community help?
Haven’t decided yet, we’ll see what tomorrow brings and sometimes that’s ok. I have nothing but opportunities ahead, and I’m excited to see who is coming along for the ride.
What advice do you have for those who want to advance liberty and make a difference in our society?
Be loyal to the people who are loyal to you, and persistence alone wins.
What are some hobbies/side gigs/secret skills no one knows about?
I’m secretly hilarious.
What are you watching/reading right now?
I’m on my yearly reread of Lord of the Rings.
Last question: What does winning this award mean to you?
It’s a culmination of a lot of things. I’m grateful to the many friends and colleagues that have helped me along the way.