Secretary of Health and Human Services
Following a year serving as Chair of the Children's Defense Fund (1992–1993), Shalala was appointed United States Secretary of Health and Human Services in 1993 by President Bill Clinton. She served in this role for all eight years of his administration, becoming the nation's longest serving HHS Secretary. In 1996 as Cabinet Secretary, Shalala was the designated survivor during President Clinton's State of the Union address.
In her role as HHS Secretary, Shalala frequently drew criticism for her positions, which were seen by some as too liberal. The Washington Post labeled her "one of the most controversial Clinton Cabinet nominees". She was also known for her fervent anti-drug stance. She was the first Arab-American to serve in a Cabinet position.
Read more about this topic: Donna Shalala
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