Jeri Thomson
American political administrator From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jeri Thomson is an American political administrator who served as the 30th Secretary of the United States Senate from 2001 to 2003. Appointed during a period of heightened security concerns following the September 11 attacks and the 2001 anthrax attacks, Thomson oversaw critical Senate operations and institutional reforms, including the early development of the Capitol Visitor Center.[1]
Jeri Thomson | |
|---|---|
| Secretary of the United States Senate | |
| In office July 12, 2001 – January 3, 2003 | |
| Preceded by | Gary Lee Sisco |
| Succeeded by | Emily J. Reynolds |
| Personal details | |
| Spouse | David James |
| Children | 2 |
| Education | University of Washington Harvard University (Kodak Fellow) |
Early life and career
Thomson earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Washington and later participated in Harvard University's Senior Managers in Government program as a Kodak Fellow.[2] She began her career in 1971 as a staffer for Senator John V. Tunney, specializing in legislative operations.[3] From 1982 to 1989, she served as deputy director of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, overseeing fundraising and campaign logistics.[4] Thomson later held senior roles in the Senate Sergeant at Arms' office, where she modernized legislative tracking systems.[5]
Tenure as Secretary of the Senate
Thomson was unanimously confirmed as Secretary on July 12, 2001, via Senate Resolution 129, making her the first woman appointed to the role under split Senate control.[6] Key actions during her tenure included:
- Anthrax Crisis Management: Coordinated relocation of Senate offices after anthrax-contaminated mail shut down the Hart Senate Office Building in October 2001.[7]
- Capitol Visitor Center: Secured funding and planning approvals for the $600 million visitor center, addressing post-9/11 security needs.[8]
- Legislative Automation: Expanded digital tracking of bills and votes, building on her prior work recognized by *Federal Computer Week's 1993 "Federal 100" award.[5]
- Bipartisan Collaboration: Praised by both Majority Leader Tom Daschle and Minority Leader Trent Lott for maintaining procedural neutrality.[9]
Later career and legacy
Thomson resigned in 2003 after Republicans regained Senate control. A Senate resolution honored her for "dedication to the institution’s integrity during unprecedented threats." She later advised on congressional security protocols and joined the private sector.[10]
Personal life
Thomson is married to Dr. David James, a retired physician, and has two daughters.[11]
See also
References
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