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Mar 15, 2017 · In the process, his family – wife Karin Hillstrom and children Liam, Addie and Teddy – enjoyed their unique vantage point. “Our kids got to see this up close and personal,” McDonough said. “There’s some beauty in seeing this stuff through the eyes of your kids, because they’re not varnished by the cynicism that so pervades much of ...
- Early Life and Academic Pursuits
- Career Beginnings and Political Ascent
- Obama Administration
- Transition to Private Sector and Academia
- Secretary of Veterans Affairs
- Personal Life and Influence
McDonough’s early life in Minnesota and his time at Saint John’s University, graduating summa cum laude with a degree in history and Spanish, set a solid foundation for his career. His post-graduation travels and teaching stint in Belize reflect a commitment to understanding diverse cultures and global perspectives, themes that would prominently fe...
McDonough’s career began on Capitol Hill, where he worked as an aide for the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs, focusing on Latin America. This role was a precursor to his tenure as a senior foreign policy advisor to notable senators, including Tom Daschle and Ken Salazar, and his involvement with the Center for American Progress. Hi...
McDonough’s contributions during the Obama administration were significant and varied. His roles within the National Security Council and his pivotal position as Deputy National Security Advisor placed him at the heart of American foreign policy decision-making. Notably, McDonough was part of the critical team in the Situation Room during the Osama...
After his tenure in the Obama White House, McDonough transitioned to the Markle Foundation, where he focused on transforming the American labor market to better reflect the needs of the digital economy. His efforts to expand employment opportunities and job training for Americans underscored his ongoing commitment to public service, even outside of...
In 2021, President Joe Biden nominated McDonough to lead the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, a role that he was confirmed to by a significant majority in the Senate. His appointment as VA Secretary, despite being the second non-veteran to hold this position, reflects Biden’s confidence in McDonough’s abilities to oversee and improve t...
McDonough’s personal life, marked by his marriage to Karin Hillstrom and their three children, reflects the grounding and perspective that have influenced his public service. His career, characterized by dedication to duty and a deep understanding of both foreign and domestic policies, underscores the significant impact he has had on American polic...
- whitehouse
- Secretary Of Veterans Affairs
On February 8, the Senate confirmed McDonough as VA Secretary by a 87–7 vote, with six senators absent. McDonough is the second non-veteran to hold this position. Vice President Kamala Harris swore him in on February 9. Personal life. McDonough is married to Karin Hillstrom. They have three children. References
- Karin Hillstrom
Feb 9, 2021 · Denis McDonough ’s confirmation Feb. 8 as the new VA secretary received overwhelming bipartisan support – an 87-7 vote reflecting the collaborative and consultative relationship the administration and Congress want to foster between the executive and legislative branches.
Feb 9, 2021 · Vice President Kamala Harris administered the oath of office to McDonough using his father's Bible. McDonough's wife, Karin Hillstrom, was present at the brief event, as were their two...
Feb 15, 2024 · He was confirmed by the Senate and sworn in in February 2021. McDonough is married to Karin Hillstrom and they have three children. In the News…. Secretary Denis McDonough is advocating for the increased return to in-person work in the National Capital Region Department of Veterans Affairs.
WASHINGTON – Denis McDonough was sworn in as secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs on Tuesday in a ceremony conducted by Vice President Kamala Harris. McDonough, former President...
