Sylvia Mathews Burwell

Sylvia Mathews Burwell

Sylvia Mathews Burwell official portrait

Sylvia Mary Mathews Burwell (born June 23, 1965) is an American government and nonprofit executive who served as the 22nd United States Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2014 to 2017 under President Barack Obama. Prior to her role as Secretary, she held various positions in both the public and private sectors, including serving as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

Early Life and Education

Sylvia Mathews was born in Hinton, West Virginia, to parents Cleo Maroudas Mathews and Dr. William Peter Mathews. Her family has Greek roots, and she was raised in a household that valued education and public service. Mathews excelled academically and went on to attend Harvard University, where she graduated with a degree in Government. She later earned a second degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar.

Career

Early Career

Mathews began her career in public service as a staff member for the National Economic Council during the administration of President Bill Clinton. She quickly rose through the ranks, serving as Deputy Chief of Staff to the President and later as Chief of Staff to Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin.

Office of Management and Budget

In 2013, Mathews was appointed as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) by President Obama. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing the preparation of the federal budget and ensuring the effective implementation of government policies.

Secretary of Health and Human Services

Barack Obama with Sylvia Mathews Burwell, 2016

In 2014, Sylvia Mathews Burwell was nominated by President Obama to serve as the Secretary of Health and Human Services, succeeding Kathleen Sebelius. During her tenure, she played a crucial role in the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, focusing on expanding healthcare access and improving the quality of care. Her leadership was instrumental in managing the department's response to public health challenges, including the Ebola outbreak.

Post-Government Career

After leaving government service, Burwell transitioned to the nonprofit sector. In 2017, she became the President of American University, where she has focused on enhancing the university's academic programs and expanding its global reach.

Personal Life

Sylvia Mathews Burwell is married to Stephen Burwell, and they have two children. She is known for her commitment to public service and her ability to navigate complex policy issues with a focus on practical solutions.

Related Pages

• United States Secretary of Health and Human Services
• Office of Management and Budget
• Affordable Care Act
• American University