The United States Institute of Peace congratulates Gayle Smith on her Senate confirmation as the Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

Gayle Smith
Photo credit: Bread for the World/Flickr

USAID is a global humanitarian and development leader in providing innovative solutions for saving lives, reducing extreme poverty, building resilient communities and strengthening democracy, all of which are more important than ever in a time of growing global complexity. USAID’s programs, partnerships and leadership are more essential than ever and require energetic leadership at the helm. Ms. Smith brings the necessary experience to steer USAID during this critical period.

Ms. Smith will lead a key federal agency that oversees humanitarian aid and development projects worldwide, with a field presence in more than 80 countries. USAID spearheads a range of critical government-wide initiatives aimed at reinforcing global health systems, building sustained food security and inclusive growth, and increasing power distribution to homes and businesses in Africa.

“Gayle is the perfect person to lead USAID at this time, with her deep insight, experience and knowledge of the agency and its key initiatives,” said USIP President Nancy Lindborg. “She brings tremendous energy and vision to an agency that is more vital than ever as we face a crushing global burden of humanitarian crises. She understands how development works and how to make things happen. She will be a great asset to USAID and to our nation at a critical time.”

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