Michael Punke ’89, who received his J.D. with a specialization in International Legal Affairs from Cornell Law School, was nominated by President Barack Obama at the beginning of September to be the U.S. ambassador to the World Trade Organization according to missoulian.com. His nomination is pending Senate confirmation.

“Michael Punke is uniquely suited to lead USTR’s team at the WTO,” said Ron Kirk, United States trade representative. As ambassador to the WTO, Punke would be primarily responsible for advancing trade prospects between the United States and other members of the WTO.

Punke studied as an undergraduate at George Washington University, earning his degree in international affairs. While at Cornell, Punke was the editor in chief of the Cornell International Law Journal according to missoula.com.

Prof. John Barcelo law, had Punke as his student when Punke was at the law school. Barcelo said that Punke was “a very good student” and he was “delighted” upon hearing of his confirmation. As a student, Barcelo noted that Punke had an intense interest in U.S.-Japanese trade relations at the time, even coordinating a conference on the subject.

“Mike will have a very important role ... at the global level,” Barcelo said of Punke’s nomination.

Michelle Yetter law, the current editor in chief of the Cornell International Law Journal, expressed the journal’s pride whenever one of its alumni achieve success either in personal practice or public service. “It reflects well on the journal and the law school,” Yetter said.

After earning his degree from Cornell, Punke returned to Washington, D.C. to serve in governmental capacities. In 1991 and 1992, Punke served on the International Trade Counsel. He then went on to serve as director for International Economic Affairs, in addition to being on the National Security Council and the National Economic Council from 1993 to 1995.

Punke and his family moved from D.C. to Missoula, Mont. While he spent time as a consultant on international trade issues, he spent the majority of his time writing historical novels. If he is confirmed for the ambassadorship by the Senate, Punke will move to Geneva where the WTO is headquartered.