Speeches 
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July 15, 2019
Thank you, Jason, for that kind introduction. And thank you for your leadership as our Chief Information Officer (CIO) and more broadly as a leader in developing effective approaches—like this academy—to address information security challenges. I'd also like to thank Federal Chief Information Officer Suzette Kent and the many agency CIOs for joining us.
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June 25, 2019
Thank you, President Leigh Goodson, for that kind introduction, and for your leadership of Tulsa Community College. Director Millicent Newton-Embry, Superintendent Jeana Ely, Warden Janet Dowling, thank you all for your hospitality.
And, Chef Jeff, we look forward to hearing your story of personal redemption, growth and success. Class of 2019, many of you will soon tell similar stories. Though, you may not be able to bake a carrot souffle quite like Jeff does!
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May 17, 2019
Thank you, Andrew Coffin, for that kind introduction. And thank you, Ron Robinson. I really admire your lifelong dedication to ensuring our next generations know and embrace freedom. There’s nothing more important than the formation of America’s future, her students.
Rancho del Cielo is a national treasure. For President Reagan, it represented America. It represented freedom. Vast potential, possibilities, and opportunities—just waiting to be seized.
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May 6, 2019
Thank you for that introduction, and thank you for hosting me today.
Education is an issue I tend to think a lot about—and have for many years. I’ve followed your reporting and I appreciate all that you do as journalists.
The simple truth is: I never imagined I’d be a focus of your coverage. I don’t enjoy the publicity that comes with my position. I don’t love being up on stage or on any kind of platform. I’m an introvert.
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May 1, 2019
Thank you, Roger Hertog, for that kind introduction. And I'm very grateful for President Bush's kind words. I'm also thankful to be joined by my husband, Dick, daughter Andrea, son-in-law Michael, and my mom Elsa and her husband Ren.
Let me start by thanking the Manhattan Institute for this award. Although, I must admit I'm not sure what I've done to deserve such an honor.
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April 29, 2019
Welcome to the White House.
I'm grateful for the members of the Council of Chief State School Officers and their work on behalf of students. I enjoyed our conversation earlier this month and look forward to continuing to work with you on ways we can ensure every student in America has access to a great education.
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April 12, 2019
Thank you, Jon Graft, for that kind introduction and for your hospitality. I enjoyed visiting with you in Washington and continue to be impressed with the ways Butler Tech is rethinking educationamong them the new "Fifth Day Experience."
And students, I'm so pleased to join you for "Signing Day!" What an exciting and fitting way to recognize what you've accomplished. What you're doing here today is as important and notable as any other signing day.
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March 26, 2019
Chairwoman DeLauro, Ranking Member Cole, and Members of the Subcommittee:
Thank you for the opportunity to testify on the President’s fiscal year 2020 budget.
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February 28, 2019
Thank you, Walter Blanks, for that kind introduction. And thanks for sharing your story with us this morning. Stories like yours and Denisha Merriweather's touch my heart every time I hear them, and they keep me motivated every day. I know each of you has an inspiring story, too!
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January 28, 2019
Thank you, Frank Pugh, for that kind introduction.
Thank you all for everything you do to serve your communities. In your roles, nearly all of you as volunteer school board members, you are each in an important position to advocate for students and to listen to families.