Courtney O'Donnell ’93 was recently sworn in as U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Vice President Kamala Harris swore her in, honoring O'Donnell's years of service as communications director for Jill Biden during the Obama administration when Joe Biden was vice president, and more recently as a senior adviser in Harris' office and Acting Chief of Staff for second gentleman Emhoff.

“Ambassador O'Donnell, there is no one better to represent our nation at UNESCO,” Harris said. “We are so thankful to you for all you have done and continue to do on behalf of our country."

In her role, O'Donnell works with UNESCO member countries to strengthen U.S. leadership on global education, science, and cultural heritage efforts. A priority has been addressing the influence of authoritarian nations, fighting antisemitism, and promoting efficiency within the organization. O'Donnell described UNESCO as uniquely positioned to advocate for Holocaust education, which she emphasized is critical amid a global rise in antisemitism following the recent conflict in Israel.

Her appointment has received widespread support, including praise from the World Jewish Congress, which emphasized her dedication to Holocaust education and antisemitism awareness. Maram Stern, executive vice president of the organization, described her as an “outstanding choice” for the role, highlighting her commitment to UNESCO's vision of promoting peace and cultural understanding worldwide.