Thaindian News

WASHINGTON D.C. (BNO NEWS) — United States President Barack Obama on Friday named Jeremy Bernard as Special Assistant to the President and Social Secretary.

“Jeremy shares our vision for the White House as the People’s House, one that celebrates our history and culture in dynamic and inclusive ways,” said Obama. “We look forward to Jeremy continuing to showcase America’s arts and culture to our nation and the world.”

Bernard, who currently serves as Senior Advisor to the Ambassador at the U.S. Embassy of Paris, is the first man and first openly gay person to hold the White House post.

“I am deeply humbled to join the White House staff as Social Secretary and support President Obama and the First Lady in this role,” said Bernard. “I have long admired the arts and education programs that have become hallmarks of the Obama White House and I am eager to continue these efforts in the years ahead.”

He will succeed Julianna Smoot who resigned last month to join the reelection campaign in Chicago. Desiree Rogers was the first social secretary for the Obama administration.

Prior to his role at the U.S. Embassy of Paris, Bernard worked as the White House Liaison to the National Endowment for the Humanities from 2008 to 2010. He also was a California Finance Consultant for the Obama for American campaign.

“I look forward to working with Jeremy to continue the great work of the Social Office,” said Tina Tchen, Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama. “Jeremy’s creativity, perspective and skills will be a welcome addition to our East Wing team.”

Bernard, a native of San Antonio, Texas, was appointed by President Clinton as member of his Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

He was member of the Democratic National Committee from 2001 to 2009, and served as a board member of A.N.G.L.E. (Access Now for Gay & Lesbian Equality) and the National Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund.