Margaret Spellings

Former U.S. Secretary of Education and domestic policy advisor to the President, Margaret Spellings is one of the nation’s leading experts on the future competitiveness of the American workforce. Exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, she brings in-depth knowledge and insight into the forces that will shape the future of American industry. From the rise of educated workers in emerging markets and the aging of populations around the world to the influx of skilled labor, she breaks down the complex set of factors facing the country in its discussion of the workforce. As one of the most highly respected members of the Bush cabinet, Spellings also speaks passionately about the beneficial impacts education reform can have on business, the global economy, and the prospects for America’s continued prosperity.

American Competitiveness in the Global Marketplace. Prior to her tenure as Education Secretary, Spellings served as assistant to the president for domestic policy, where she helped create No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and crafted policies on education, immigration, health care, labor, transportation, justice, housing, and more. Previously, Spellings worked for six years as senior advisor to Governor Bush, and was responsible for developing and implementing education reforms in the state of Texas. From the White House and the statehouse to the school board and college campus, Spellings has been involved with education policy at every level.

Building a Better Workforce. Spellings led the effort to pass the American Competitive Initiative to strengthen math and science instruction, one of the key reforms that will fuel American ingenuity and success in the future. Under her direction, the Department of Education partnered with states to implement and enforce the NCLB, which commits American schools to bringing all students up to grade level or better in reading and math by 2014. The law has led to rising test scores and shrinking achievement gaps in states across the country. In addition, she supported teachers with new financial incentives for gains in student achievement and parents with new educational choices and options. She also proposed a landmark Plan for Higher Education that would improve accessibility and affordability for students entering college.

Current Works. Spellings is president and CEO of Margaret Spellings and Company, a senior advisor to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the president of the U.S. Forum for Policy Innovation, where she oversees the Chamber’s three non-profit foundations. In addition, she is a senior advisor to the Boston Consulting Group, a global management consulting firm. Spellings also serves on the boards of America’s Promise Alliance, The Broad Center for the Management of School Systems, ConnectEdu, The Education Equality Project, and Special Olympics. She is a member of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Advisory Council and The Aspen Institute Commission to Reform the Federal Appointments Process.

Margaret Spellings is an experienced public speaker and media personality who speaks with authority on policy and politics to business and civic audiences. She has appeared on Meet the Press, Celebrity Jeopardy, the Daily Show with Jon Stewart, and the Colbert Report, among others.