Jewish Woman Sworn in As Employment Security Commissioner in Tennessee

Mrs. Leo H. Burson, of Memphis, the first Jew ever to achieve the status of a member of Tennessee’s State Cabinet, was sworn in here this week in her new post as Commissioner of the Department of Employment Security. The job pays $17, 500 a year.

Mrs. Burson, a Hadassah leader, is very active in Jewish communal life in Memphis. She takes an active part in the United Jewish Appeal and is the only woman to have served as president of the Memphis Jewish Community Relations Council. She is also active in the sale of Israel bonds. A member of the National Board of Hadassah, she is also a past national vice-president. She is presently serving on the Board of Trustees of United Israel Appeal. She visited Israel several times and was a delegate to the 25th and 26th World Zionist Congresses in Jerusalem.

Governor Buford Ellington, in appointing Mrs. Burson to her state post said: “She will bring to the state government a talent dedicated to serving others. She not only expresses concern about the problems of fellow Tennesseans, but she uses her time and ability to produce positive action.” Mrs. Burson served as state women’s chairman for the campaign in which Mr. Ellington was elected Governor. She has been active for many years in the city’s and state’s civic and political life.