Sylvia Mathews Burwell

Sylvia Mathews Burwell (born June 23, 1965) is an American government and non-profit sector executive who has played significant roles in both the public and private sectors. She served as the 22nd United States Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2014 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. Prior to this, she was the Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) from 2013 to 2014.

Early Life and Education

Sylvia Mathews was born in Hinton, West Virginia. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Harvard University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in government. Following her time at Harvard, she was a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, where she received a bachelor's degree in philosophy, politics, and economics.

Career

Early Career

Burwell began her career in Washington, D.C., working for the McKinsey & Company as a consultant. She then moved into government service during the Clinton Administration, holding several economic policy roles. Notably, she served as Deputy Director of the National Economic Council and later as Deputy Chief of Staff to the President.

Philanthropic Work

Before her tenure in the Obama administration, Burwell was involved in significant philanthropic efforts. She held leadership positions at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, serving as the foundation's executive vice president and chief operating officer. Later, she became the president of the Walmart Foundation, where she focused on hunger relief, education, and workforce development initiatives.

Office of Management and Budget

In 2013, President Barack Obama nominated Burwell to be the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Her nomination was confirmed by the Senate, and she served in this capacity, overseeing the federal budget process and playing a key role in negotiations over budget issues between the Obama administration and Congress.

Secretary of Health and Human Services

Following the resignation of Kathleen Sebelius, Burwell was nominated and confirmed as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Her tenure was marked by efforts to implement and improve the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. She focused on increasing healthcare enrollment, reducing healthcare costs, and improving healthcare quality. Under her leadership, the HHS also responded to public health crises, including the Ebola and Zika virus outbreaks.

Post-Government Career

After leaving the Obama administration, Burwell transitioned to academia. She became the President of American University in Washington, D.C., where she has focused on higher education policy, innovation, and student engagement.

Personal Life

Sylvia Mathews Burwell is married and has two children. She has been recognized for her leadership and service with several awards and honors throughout her career.

Legacy

Burwell's career is notable for her leadership in both government and philanthropic sectors. Her work at the Department of Health and Human Services, particularly in the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, has had a lasting impact on the American healthcare system.