The U.S. Department of Education has announced a new group of political appointees to aid in advancing President Trump's educational objectives, which emphasize parental empowerment and enhanced accountability within American education.
Sarah Ursprung has been appointed as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs. Her background includes serving as a Policy Advisor during the first Trump administration and holding the position of Director of Government Relations at Heritage Action for America.
Hayley Sanon will take on the role of Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. Her previous experience includes working as K-12 Education Policy Advisor for the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, along with her academic credentials from Harvard Graduate School of Education and Duke University.
Steven Schaefer joins as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy in the Office for Civil Rights. His career includes work at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and teaching roles both domestically and abroad.
David Samberg has been named Counsel in the Office for Civil Rights. He brings experience from his tenure as Investigative Counsel for the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.
Andrew Cuff is appointed Chief Speechwriter, drawing on his background in education, communications, and policy advocacy.
Murray Bessette takes up a position as Senior Advisor in the Office of Postsecondary Education after having directed academic programs at several institutions including Morehead State University.
Ellen Keast will serve as Deputy Press Secretary. She has experience advising on media strategy through her recent work with DCI Group based in Washington D.C.
These appointments are part of ongoing efforts by President Trump's administration to influence educational policy across various sectors including elementary, secondary, postsecondary education, civil rights compliance, legislative affairs, communication strategies, and public engagement initiatives.
