By Todd Lappin
Christine Varney is working to bridge the cultural gap that separates Silicon Valley from the Beltway. A former Clinton White House adviser, Varney served as a federal trade commissioner until late last year, when she returned to the private sector. As a lawyer at Hogan & Hartson, she guides clients such as Netscape through Washington's regulatory labyrinths and heads up the firm's Internet Practice Group.
On the side, she's leveraging her contacts and experience to help high tech companies, public interest groups, and government officials work together more effectively. Last December, she chaired the three-day Internet Online Summit, which focused on child safety. The event was contentious but productive - largely as a result of Varney's diplomatic acumen. "I'm comfortable in this role," she says. "I'm an honest broker, a straight shooter, and a tough negotiator."
ELECTRIC WORD
Digital Diplomat
