Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Kathleen Sebelius

Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Former Governor of Kansas

Kathleen Sebelius Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Former Governor of Kansas

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Kathleen Sebelius
Speaking Fee:
$30,000 to $50,000

Travels From:
MCI - Kansas City, MO

Primary Topic Category:
Healthcare

Secondary Topic Category:
Big Names / Headliners / Star Power

 

Kathleen Sebelius Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Kathleen Sebelius became the 44th governor of the state of Kansas in 2003. She was reelected to a second term in 2006 and resigned from office in 2009 to accept the appointment as U.S. Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in the Obama Administration. Sebelius’ administration was committed to growing the Kansas economy, creating jobs, and ensuring every Kansas child received a quality education. In 2005, Time magazine named her one of the nation’s top five governors. After leaving public service, Sebelius founded a consulting firm and has served on a number of boards of directors.

Kathleen Sebelius is a prominent figure in the field of public health and government, known for her leadership and dedication to improving healthcare in the United States. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Sebelius hails from a family with a strong political background. Her father, John J. Gilligan, was a former governor of Ohio, instilling in her a passion for public service early on. She earned a bachelor's degree in political science from Trinity Washington University and later pursued a Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas. Her academic background laid a solid foundation for her career in public administration and policy. Sebelius’s political journey began in Kansas as a member of the Kansas House of Representatives from 1987 to 1995. Her commitment to serving the public and her ability to navigate complex legislative environments were evident during her tenure. In 1995, she further cemented her reputation for effective administration when she was elected as the Kansas Insurance Commissioner. Sebelius took bold steps to regulate insurance companies and prioritize consumer protection, gaining national recognition for her efforts. In 2003, Sebelius became the 44th Governor of Kansas, serving two terms in a role that allowed her to implement significant reforms in education and health. She focused on creating a more inclusive healthcare system and invested heavily in boosting the state’s education sector. Her pragmatic approach and ability to work across party lines made her a widely respected leader. These achievements led to her being named one of Time magazine's Top Five Governors in the country during her tenure. In 2009, President Barack Obama appointed Kathleen Sebelius as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, a role she held until 2014. During her time in office, Sebelius played a pivotal role in the rollout of the Affordable Care Act, a landmark legislation that expanded healthcare access to millions of Americans. Her tenure was marked by both achievements and challenges, but her steadfast commitment to healthcare reform never wavered. She navigated the complexities of health policy and spearheaded initiatives focused on improving the quality and accessibility of healthcare for all Americans. Since leaving federal office, Sebelius has continued to influence public policy and healthcare reform. She founded Sebelius Resources LLC, a strategic consulting firm, and serves on several boards, where her expertise continues to guide mission-driven organizations. Additionally, she is a sought-after speaker and advisor, sharing insights from her extensive career in public service. Kathleen Sebelius remains a passionate advocate for health equity and the improvement of health systems, tirelessly working towards a healthier future for all.
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