10/29/2026
I grew up in a multigenerational family of Star Trek fans, and my sister has always said that every important lesson she ever learned could be found somewhere in Star Trek. I think there is a lot of truth to that, particularly in Captain Jean-Luc Picard, whose intelligence, integrity, compassion, and moral courage embodied so much of what we admired about leadership and humanity.
My appreciation for Sir Patrick Stewart extended beyond his work on stage and screen. As a survivor of DV, his willingness to speak openly about the violence he witnessed growing up and his advocacy efforts have always held special meaning for me. Much of my own volunteer service, board leadership, and professional life has centered on supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening the organizations that serve them. I deeply respected his commitment to using his voice to make a difference.
Many years ago, my family had the pleasure of meeting Patrick Stewart at a Comic Con event in Chicago, and he was every bit as warm, gracious, and kind as we had imagined, especially with our children. We still joke that we all wish we’d been the lucky one sitting on his lap in our family photo. 😆
That photo has a rather wonderful story of its own. When we returned to pick it up, several people approached us asking if they could buy it, which struck us as strange and, after repeated requests, became a little annoying. Why on earth would anyone want a picture of someone else’s family? When I finally asked, they explained that ours was the only photo in which Patrick Stewart was smiling. I looked across the table at all the other images, and sure enough, they were right. 😀
For years, that picture hung in my office, and I was amused that the only professional family photo I had also happened to be with the cast of TNG. Somehow that seemed fitting, because Patrick Stewart and Star Trek had been part of our family’s life for generations.
There is something especially meaningful about meeting someone you’ve admired for years and discovering that the kindness and humanity you saw in their work are every bit as genuine in person.
Of all the remarkable things Patrick Stewart gave us through his performances, his advocacy, and the example he set, I will always be especially grateful for the tenderness he showed my family and a memory that has only grown more precious with time.
Live long and prosper 🖖❤️
