Secretary Chao is an inspirational leader who has been appointed to two Presidential cabinet positions: U. S. Secretary of Labor and and U. S. Secretary of Transportation. She is the first woman of Asian American heritage to serve in a President’s cabinet in history. She arrived in America in the third grade not speaking English and received her citizenship at the age of 19. Her experience transitioning to a new country motivated her to ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities in America. Secretary Chao was also President & CEO of the United Way of America and Director of the Peace Corps. She began her public service career as a White House Fellow before becoming Deputy Maritime Administrator, U.S. Department of Transportation; Chair of the Federal Maritime Commission; and Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Secretary Chao was also a banker in the private sector. Secretary Chao earned her M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and is the recipient of 37 honorary degrees. She is the eldest of six daughters of Dr. James S. C. Chao and the late Mrs. Ruth Mulan Chu Chao. Secretary Chao is a resident of Kentucky.