Can I sue a coworker who has tarnished my name?

Not unless they cross the legal definition of libel. From what you stated, their behavior looks bad on you because you 'vouched' for them.

It's a mistake in judgement on your part but not a cause for legal action.

If the co-worker had maliciously said or implied something untrue about you that caused you to lose a tangible item such as a promition or job, you might (and I mean might) be able to sue for libel but the rules there are pretty strict.

You can sue anyone for anything at any time. The better question is can you win? Proving she has caused you intential losses in court and is civilly liable is not likely to happen.

This kind of things happens to everyone, only once if you learn from your mistakes.

I got a friend a job *ONCE* and it completely backfired as the guy made up stories about me to make himself look better.

No not unless they have slandered your name. Sorry but you should distance yourself from this friend.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.