The U.S. Department of Education has announced President Donald J. Trump’s nominations for key leadership positions, aiming to advance the administration’s education reform agenda. These nominees bring diverse expertise in education, law, civil rights, and workforce development, with a collective vision to empower states, enhance accountability, and prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.
Meet the Incoming Leadership Team:
Nicholas Kent – Under Secretary of Education
Nicholas Kent has been nominated for the role of Under Secretary of Education. He previously served as Deputy Secretary of Education for the Commonwealth of Virginia under Governor Glenn Youngkin and was the Chief Policy Officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), where he advocated for higher education reform. His experience also includes leadership roles at the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education, focusing on policy, planning, and research.
Jennifer Mascott – General Counsel, Department of Education
Jennifer Mascott, a tenured associate professor of law at Catholic University, has been nominated for General Counsel. She founded the Separation of Powers Institute and the Separation of Powers Litigation Clinic and has experience in all three branches of the federal government, including roles at the U.S. Department of Justice and clerkships with Justice Clarence Thomas and Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Mascott is a leading scholar on regulatory processes and executive power.
Kimberly Richey – Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Department of Education
Kimberly Richey, a seasoned educator and attorney with nearly two decades of experience in education leadership at the state and federal levels, has been nominated for Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. She has served in senior roles in Oklahoma, Virginia, and Florida and previously worked at the U.S. Department of Education under both the George W. Bush and Trump administrations.
Kirsten Baesler – Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, Department of Education
Kirsten Baesler, currently the longest-serving chief state school officer in the nation as North Dakota’s elected state superintendent, has been nominated for Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education. She is a champion of personalized competency-based learning and student readiness.
Kevin O’Farrell – Assistant Secretary for Career and Technical Education, Department of Education
Dr. Kevin O’Farrell, currently the Chancellor for the Division of Career and Adult Education for the Florida Department of Education, has been nominated for Assistant Secretary for Career and Technical Education. He has over 18 years of experience in education leadership and has been instrumental in expanding workforce education opportunities in Florida.
Mary Christina Riley – Assistant Secretary for Legislation and Congressional Affairs, Department of Education
Mary Christina Riley, with extensive experience in education and workforce policy, has been nominated for Assistant Secretary for Legislation and Congressional Affairs. She has served as Professional Staff for the House Committee on Education and the Workforce and as a Senior Advisor at the Department of Education during the first Trump administration.
Why This Matters for Education Reform:
The incoming leadership team represents a diverse range of expertise and a shared commitment to:
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Empowering States: Returning control of education to states and local communities.
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Strengthening Accountability: Ensuring transparency and results for students and families.
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Expanding Opportunities: Preparing students for success in college, careers, and life through innovative programs and workforce readiness initiatives.
Suggested Images for the Article:
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Leadership Team Group Photo: A high-quality image of the nominees together, symbolizing unity and collaboration.
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Education Reform Visual: A graphic showing students, teachers, and policymakers working together, with elements like books, laptops, and graduation caps.
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State and Federal Collaboration: A map of the U.S. with icons representing education reform initiatives across states.
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Career and Technical Education: A photo of students in a hands-on learning environment, such as a robotics lab or trade workshop.
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Civil Rights Focus: An image of diverse students in a classroom, symbolizing equity and inclusion in education.
These nominations are subject to Senate confirmation, and the Department of Education anticipates working with the Senate to ensure a smooth and timely confirmation process.
Source: U.S. Department of Education