The U.S. Senate confirmed a prominent Jewish activist as chief of protocol for the State Department.
Nancy Goodman Brinker, a fund-raiser for cancer research and a prominent Republican Jewish activist, assumed her new job on Thursday.
Brinker, who founded the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation after her sister died of the disease, had previously served as Bush’s ambassador to Hungary from 2001-2003. The former Dallas socialite and current Florida resident was easily confirmed by the Senate on Sept. 12.
As chief of protocol, she accompanies the president on foreign visits and coordinates the visits of foreign dignitaries. The Dallas Morning News reported that Brinker plans to promote “medical diplomacy” and to upgrade Blair House, the residence for leaders who visit Washington situated across the street from the White House.
Brinker, who resigned positions in the health care industry to take the post, has also been active in the Republican Jewish Coalition.
“Nancy Brinker is truly one of the most remarkable leaders of our generation,” said Matt Brooks, the RJC’s executive director. “Her drive, passion, intellect and tremendous accomplishments make her a perfect individual for this job and a real inspiration to the Jewish community.”
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