In a significant ceremony held on Monday, Bharat-American Sonali Korde took the oath of office as the assistant to USAID Administrator Samantha Power for the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. The event marked a pivotal moment in Korde’s career, positioning her to play a key role in the United States’ efforts to address humanitarian crises worldwide.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Administrator Power lauded Korde’s background and qualities, describing her as “a gift to us all.” Power emphasized Korde’s upbringing, shaped by her parents’ migration from India and their commitment to exposing her to diverse perspectives through frequent trips back to Bharat. These experiences instilled in Korde a profound sense of justice and a passion for addressing inequality and injustice.
Prior to assuming her new role, Korde served as the deputy assistant to the administrator for the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. In this capacity, she played a vital role in coordinating the US government’s response to international disasters and crises. Notably, Korde served as deputy to the US Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues, where she led diplomatic efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Korde brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having previously served on the National Security Council staff as director for Global Health and Development. In this role, she played a crucial role in shaping US global health policy and initiatives, contributing to the broader goals of development, security, and bilateral cooperation.
From 2005 to 2013, Korde served as a senior technical advisor for the President’s Malaria Initiative within USAID’s Bureau for Global Health. In this capacity, she managed integrated malaria and public health programs in Africa and Asia, collaborating closely with international organizations, NGOs, and government partners to combat the spread of malaria and improve public health outcomes.
Korde’s educational background further underscores her qualifications for her new role. She holds a Master of Arts degree in international relations from Yale University and a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from New York University. Her academic achievements complement her extensive professional experience, equipping her with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex humanitarian challenges effectively.
As she embarks on her new role, Sonali Korde stands poised to make a meaningful impact on the global humanitarian landscape. With her dedication, expertise, and commitment to justice, she is well-positioned to advance USAID’s mission of providing crucial assistance to those in need around the world.
Comments