Valerie Jarrett

Valerie June Jarrett is a distinguished American businesswoman and former senior advisor to President Barack Obama, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Obama Foundation. A trailblazer in public service and leadership, Jarrett held pivotal roles including Assistant to the President for Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls. She played a key role in shaping policies that addressed gender equality and urban affairs, significantly contributing to the Obama Administration’s legacy.

Jarrett’s career began in Chicago politics, where she served as Deputy Corporation Counsel for Finance and Development under Mayor Harold Washington and as Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Richard Daley. She was instrumental in hiring Michelle Robinson, who later became First Lady. Her business acumen was exemplified during her tenure as CEO of The Habitat Company, a prominent real estate development firm, from 1995 to 2009. Furthermore, she held influential positions on various boards, including the Chicago Stock Exchange and the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Following her impactful role in the White House, Jarrett transitioned to significant positions in the private sector and nonprofit organizations, joining boards like Lyft, Walgreens Boots Alliance, and Sweetgreen. She has also been an advocate for women’s empowerment through her roles at When We All Vote and Civic Nation, driving initiatives to increase voter participation.

In popular culture, Jarrett’s influence is recognized beyond politics, with appearances in the CBS drama “The Good Wife.” An accomplished author, her book, “Finding My Voice,” reflects her journey in public service and offers insights into her role in shaping contemporary political discourse.