Washington, DC – Today, Foreign Policy for America extends its congratulations to Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on her illustrious and trailblazing diplomatic career and retirement. Throughout her remarkable diplomatic career – spanning three decades and three administrations – Deputy Secretary Sherman has exhibited unwavering dedication to advancing American interests through diplomacy. Her tireless efforts have strengthened American leadership and our alliances, and have left an indelible mark on the global stage.
Wendy Sherman has worked to address some of the toughest foreign policy challenges of our time. During the Clinton Administration, she headed North Korea negotiation policy and advanced efforts to limit its nuclear program. Wendy Sherman was appointed undersecretary of state for political affairs in the Obama Administration. In this capacity she led the U.S. negotiating team in talks with Iran and other world powers—an exercise in diplomatic prowess that would ultimately deliver the historic JCPOA, place limits on Tehran’s nuclear program, and strengthen global security. As deputy secretary of state in the Biden Administration, Wendy Sherman has been a key leader driving U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific and tactfully managing the U.S.’ relationship with China and Russia. Deputy Secretary Sherman has earned her reputation as the “go-to diplomat for tough negotiations.” The American people, and the world, are safer and more secure because of her leadership.
Both the first woman to serve as deputy secretary of state and undersecretary of state for political affairs, Wendy Sherman’s ascent to the highest echelons of American diplomatic leadership represents a milestone in our effort to strengthen diversity and inclusion in the national security space. Her career has paved the way for future generations of women to serve in leadership roles within the foreign policy arena, and her remarkable record of diplomatic achievement highlights the invaluable role of gender representation and diversity in decision- and policy-making process.
Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman’s dedication, expertise, and diplomacy have elevated the U.S.’ standing on the global stage. Her contributions to American diplomacy and national security will continue to inspire future diplomats and leaders around the world. Foreign Policy for American congratulates Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on her retirement, thanks her for her exceptional service to the United States and the world, and wishes her success in future endeavors.
“Deputy Secretary Wendy Sherman’s historic career embodies the power of American diplomacy and international leadership in addressing global challenges,” said Andrew Albertson, executive director of Foreign Policy for America. “As the first woman to serve as deputy secretary of state, Wendy Sherman shattered glass ceilings and inspired generations of leaders. Her many diplomatic accomplishments made American families safer. The FP4A community thanks her for her extraordinary service to our nation.”
“Wendy Sherman has specialized in dealing with the intractable issues and tough characters who challenge America’s diplomatic agenda,” said Ambassador (ret) Laura Kennedy, who serves on Foreign Policy for America’s Board of Directors. “I watched her work in Vienna as she negotiated the enormously complex, Rubik’s cube of an agreement that culminated in the Iran nuclear deal. The State Department will sorely miss this towering diplomat who always brilliantly took on what was ‘Not for the Faint of Heart.’”
“From serving as lead policy adviser on North Korea to negotiating the nuclear agreement with Iran, Wendy Sherman has served our country in tackling the toughest possible assignments around the world,” said Ambassador (ret) Tod Sedgwick, who serves on Foreign Policy for America’s Board of Directors. “She has also inspired a whole generation of women to follow careers in the State Department.”
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