Caroline Kennedy's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 1, 2026

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Caroline Kennedy. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Caroline Kennedy is an American author, attorney, and diplomat. She served as the United States Ambassador to Japan from 2013 to 2017 and as the Ambassador to Australia from 2022 to 2024. As a member of the Kennedy family and the only surviving child of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, she has largely dedicated her professional life to literature, law, politics, education reform, and charitable work.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

March 1975: Death of Aristotle Onassis and Honor for Eunice Kennedy Shriver

In March 1975, Caroline Kennedy attended the funeral of Aristotle Onassis. Later that year, she and her family attended the presentation of the Legion of Honor award to her aunt, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, by French president Valéry Giscard d'Estaing.

1989: Created the Profile in Courage Award

In 1989, Caroline Kennedy and her family created the Profile in Courage Award. The award recognizes public officials who demonstrate politically courageous leadership.

2001: Presented the Profile in Courage Award to Gerald Ford

In 2001, Caroline Kennedy presented the Profile in Courage Award to former president Gerald Ford for his controversial pardon of Richard Nixon.

October 16, 2013: Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to Japan

On October 16, 2013, Caroline Kennedy was confirmed by voice vote as the first female U.S. Ambassador to Japan.

2013: Appointment as Ambassador to Japan

In 2013, Caroline Kennedy was appointed as the United States Ambassador to Japan, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

August 15, 2015: Named Sponsor for the USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79)

On August 15, 2015, Caroline Kennedy was named sponsor for the second USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79), a Gerald R. Ford class supercarrier named for her father.

2021: Awarded Japan's Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun

In 2021, Caroline Kennedy was awarded Japan's Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun in recognition of her service as the United States Ambassador to Japan.