Barack Obama was the first African American to hold the office of President of the United States. During his presidency, he accomplished many things, including:
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Leadership in Science, Technology, and Innovation: Obama raised the bar for science, technology, and innovation talent serving in his Administration with five Nobel Laureates in science. He was committed to reinvigorating the American scientific enterprise through a strong commitment to basic and applied research, innovation, and education.
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Foreign Policy: Obama sought to manage a hostile Iran with a treaty that hindered its development of nuclear weapons. He also adopted a climate change policy and led global efforts to secure nuclear materials to prevent them from falling into the hands of terrorists. He built a historic opening to Cuba, ending a failed policy of over 50 years by re-establishing diplomatic relations and facilitating greater travel, commerce, and people-to-people ties.
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Domestic Policy: Obama signed into law an omnibus bill to stimulate the economy, legislation making health care more accessible and affordable, and legislation reforming the nation’s financial institutions. He also pressed for a fair pay act for women and financial reform legislation.
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Leadership Style: Obama showed that, in a crisis, fast and decisive policy action is needed. He built a diverse support base and team, and he pursued engagement over the use of force, making it a hallmark of the Administration’s promotion of America’s national security interests and the safety of the American people.
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Political Career: Obama was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 1996, where he served as Democratic Spokesperson for Public Health and Welfare Committee and Co-Chairman of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. He was elected as the junior Senator from Illinois in November 2004 and became the first African-American to be elected President on November 4, 2008.
Overall, Barack Obama accomplished many things during his presidency, including leadership in science, technology, and innovation, foreign and domestic policy, and a unique leadership style that emphasized engagement and diversity.
