No. 93: Valerie Jarrett
Episode Transcript
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What does it take to become one of the most influential voices in the White House, shaping policies that impact millions of lives?
Hey there! I’m Shae, a PhD Candidate at Harvard, and welcome to another episode of the "100 Historic Black Women You Should Know by Election Day Series." Today, we’re diving into the remarkable career of Valerie Jarrett, a powerhouse strategist and advisor who played a pivotal role in the Obama administration and continues to shape the political landscape today.
Valerie Jarrett was born on November 14, 1956, in Shiraz, Iran, to American parents. Her early years were spent overseas, which gave her a unique perspective on global issues. When her family returned to the United States, Valerie’s interest in public service grew. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Stanford University and later obtained her law degree from the University of Michigan Law School.
Valerie began her career in public service in Chicago, working in various roles within city government. She quickly became known for her ability to get things done and her commitment to improving the lives of the people in her community. This reputation led her to work closely with Chicago’s political elite, including then-Senator Barack Obama.
In 2008, Valerie Jarrett was appointed as a Senior Advisor to President Obama, a role she held throughout his two terms in office. She was one of the president’s closest confidantes, advising him on a range of issues including healthcare, the economy, and civil rights. Her influence extended beyond policy; she was instrumental in helping shape the administration’s approach to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that voices from all walks of life were heard at the highest levels of government. At the end of her tenure, she became the longest-serving senior advisor to a President in history!
In 2019, Valerie published her memoir, Finding My Voice: My Journey to the West Wing and the Path Forward, where she shares her experiences in the White House and offers insights into her personal and professional life. Today, Valerie serves as the CEO of the Barack Obama Foundation, where she continues her work on civic engagement and leadership development.
Here’s a personal note! I invited Ms. Jarrett to be the class day speaker when I was a senior at the University of Chicago. I had an opportunity to meet her wonderful mother, Barbara Bowman, a pioneer in early childhood education. She was so lovely to speak with and I truly enjoyed every second I spent with her!
Valerie Jarrett’s story is one of influence, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to public service. If you’ve been inspired by her incredible journey, I’d love for you to rate this podcast 5 stars. Your support helps us reach more listeners and share these powerful stories.
And don’t forget to follow me on social media and subscribe to my YouTube channel for even more inspiring content. Join me next time as we explore the life of another extraordinary Black woman who made history. Until then, keep listening, stay inspired, and let’s continue to celebrate the women who have shaped our world.
