History of Condoleezza Rice in Timeline
Condoleezza Rice is a prominent American diplomat and political scientist. A member of the Republican Party, she served as the 66th U.S. Secretary of State from 2005 to 2009, becoming the first female African-American in this role. Before that, she held the position of the 19th U.S. National Security Advisor from 2001 to 2005, being the first woman to serve in this capacity. Currently, Rice directs the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. Her career is marked by significant achievements, making her the highest-ranking African American in the U.S. federal executive branch until 2008 and the highest-ranking woman in the presidential line of succession during her tenure as Secretary of State.
1952: Condoleezza Rice's father joins the Republican Party
Condoleezza Rice's father joined the Republican Party in 1952 because the Democrats in Jim Crow Alabama would not register him to vote.
November 14, 1954: Condoleezza Rice is born
Condoleezza Rice was born on November 14, 1954, in Birmingham, Alabama.
September 15, 1963: Sixteenth Street Baptist Church Bombing
On September 15, 1963, when Condoleezza Rice was eight years old, her schoolmate, 11-year-old Denise McNair, was killed in the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. This act of racial terrorism profoundly impacted Rice's life.
1963: Impact of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church Bombing
The bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in 1963 had a profound impact on Condoleezza Rice. Though she did not witness the event firsthand, the bombing, which took the life of her friend and playmate Denise McNair, left an enduring mark on her life and shaped her perspective on race and terrorism.
1967: Condoleezza Rice's family moves to Denver
Condoleezza Rice's family relocated to Denver, Colorado in 1967.
1971: Condoleezza Rice graduates high school
Condoleezza Rice graduated from St. Mary's Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school in Cherry Hills Village, Colorado, at the age of 16 in 1971.
1974: Condoleezza Rice graduates from the University of Denver
At the age of 19, Condoleezza Rice graduated cum laude with a B.A. in political science from the University of Denver in 1974.
1975: Condoleezza Rice receives her master's degree
Condoleezza Rice obtained a master's degree in political science from the University of Notre Dame in 1975.
1977: Condoleezza Rice begins working at the State Department
Condoleezza Rice's career at the State Department began in 1977 during the Carter administration, working as an intern in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
1979: Condoleezza Rice studies Russian at Moscow State University
During the summer of 1979, Condoleezza Rice pursued Russian language studies at Moscow State University.
1980: Condoleezza Rice starts her fellowship at Stanford University
Condoleezza Rice began her fellowship at Stanford University's Arms Control and Disarmament Program in 1980, after receiving a Ford Foundation Dual Expertise Fellowship in Soviet Studies and International Security.
1981: Condoleezza Rice begins her career as an assistant professor at Stanford University
Condoleezza Rice's tenure as an assistant professor of political science at Stanford University began in 1981.
1981: Condoleezza Rice receives her Ph.D.
At the age of 26, Condoleezza Rice was awarded her Ph.D. in political science from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver in 1981.
1981: Condoleezza Rice receives her PhD
Condoleezza Rice earned her PhD from the School of International Studies at the University of Denver in 1981.
1981: Condoleezza Rice's fellowship at Stanford University
Condoleezza Rice continued her fellowship at Stanford University's Arms Control and Disarmament Program in 1981.
1982: Condoleezza Rice changes her political affiliation to Republican
Condoleezza Rice changed her political affiliation from Democrat to Republican in 1982.
1982: Start of George Shultz's term as Ronald Reagan's Secretary of State
George Shultz served as Ronald Reagan's secretary of state from 1982 to 1989.
1985: Condoleezza Rice's expertise noticed by Brent Scowcroft
Condoleezza Rice's expertise in arms control caught the attention of Brent Scowcroft, former National Security Advisor, at a meeting of arms control experts at Stanford in 1985.
1985: Death of Mother
In 1985, Condoleezza Rice's mother, Angelena Rice, passed away from breast cancer at the age of 61.
1985: North Korea Signs Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
North Korea joined the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in 1985.
1986: Special Assistant to the Director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Condoleezza Rice was appointed as a special assistant to the director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1986, focusing on nuclear strategic planning.
1986: Special Assistant to the Director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
While on a fellowship with the Council on Foreign Relations in 1986, Rice served as a special assistant to the director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
1987: Condoleezza Rice becomes an associate professor at Stanford University
Condoleezza Rice was promoted to associate professor at Stanford University in 1987.
1989: Condoleezza Rice begins serving on the National Security Council
Condoleezza Rice served on the National Security Council as the Soviet and Eastern Europe affairs advisor to President George H. W. Bush from 1989 to 1991.
1989: Father's Remarriage
Condoleezza Rice's father, John Wesley Rice, remarried in 1989 to Clara Bailey.
1989: End of George Shultz's term as Ronald Reagan's Secretary of State
George Shultz's term as Ronald Reagan's Secretary of State concluded in 1989.
1989: Director of Soviet and East European Affairs
Rice joined President George H. W. Bush's administration in 1989, serving as director and later senior director of Soviet and East European affairs in the National Security Council.
1989: Brent Scowcroft appoints Condoleezza Rice as his Soviet expert
When George H. W. Bush was elected, Brent Scowcroft returned to the White House as National Security Adviser in 1989 and appointed Condoleezza Rice as his Soviet expert on the United States National Security Council.
March 1991: End of Tenure in President Bush's Administration
Rice's service in President George H. W. Bush's administration, where she held positions related to Soviet and East European affairs, ended in March 1991.
1991: End of Rice's term on the National Security Council
Condoleezza Rice concluded her term on the National Security Council as the Soviet and Eastern Europe affairs advisor in 1991.
1991: Condoleezza Rice returns to Stanford and is mentored by George Shultz
Condoleezza Rice returned to Stanford University in 1991 to maintain her eligibility for tenure and was mentored by George Shultz, a fellow at the Hoover Institution and former Secretary of State.
1991: Return to Teaching and Appointment to Bipartisan Committee
Rice resumed her teaching position at Stanford in 1991 and continued consulting on the former Soviet Bloc. She was appointed to a bipartisan committee by California governor Pete Wilson to redraw state legislative and congressional districts.
1992: Volunteer Work and Appointment at Stanford
In 1992, Rice volunteered on the search committee for the new Stanford president, which led to her appointment as provost in 1993 by Gerhard Casper, who was impressed by her. She also founded the Center for New Generation to improve high school graduation rates.
1992: Condoleezza Rice joins the board of Chevron Corporation
Condoleezza Rice was recommended by George Shultz for a position on the Chevron board in 1992 due to her expertise on the Soviet Union.
1992: Center for New Generation Founded
Condoleezza Rice established the Center for New Generation in 1992, aiming to increase high school graduation rates in East Palo Alto and eastern Menlo Park, California.
1993: Chevron names a supertanker after Condoleezza Rice
Chevron Corporation named a 129,000-ton supertanker SS Condoleezza Rice in 1993 to honor her contributions to the company's project in Kazakhstan.
1993: Stanford's Provost and Tenure
Condoleezza Rice became the first female, first African-American, and youngest provost in Stanford's history in 1993. She also gained tenure and became a full professor.
1993: Condoleezza Rice becomes Provost at Stanford University
Condoleezza Rice served as the Provost at Stanford University from 1993 to 1999.
1993: Condoleezza Rice concludes her role as an associate professor at Stanford University
Condoleezza Rice's time as an associate professor at Stanford University came to an end in 1993.
1994: US-North Korea Nuclear Agreement
In 1994, the United States and North Korea reached an agreement where North Korea pledged to halt and eventually dismantle its nuclear reactors in exchange for international aid.
1997: Service on Federal Advisory Committee
Rice served on the Federal Advisory Committee on Gender–Integrated Training in the Military in 1997.
1999: First Appearance on Time 100
Condoleezza Rice first appeared on Time magazine's Time 100 list in 1999, a testament to her growing influence on the global stage.
1999: End of Rice's tenure as Provost at Stanford University
In 1999, Condoleezza Rice concluded her term as the Provost at Stanford University.
December 16, 2000: Appointment as National Security Advisor
On December 16, 2000, Condoleezza Rice was appointed as National Security Advisor by President-elect George W. Bush, making her the first woman to hold this position. She resigned from her role at Stanford University upon her appointment.
December 17, 2000: Condoleezza Rice joins the Bush administration
On December 17, 2000, Condoleezza Rice joined the Bush administration as President George W. Bush's national security advisor.
2000: Condoleezza Rice speaks at the Republican National Convention
Condoleezza Rice addressed the 2000 Republican National Convention, sharing her reasons for becoming a Republican.
2000: Death of Father
John Wesley Rice, Condoleezza Rice's father, passed away in 2000 at the age of 77. He was married to Clara Bailey at the time.
2000: Condoleezza Rice's Stance on Abortion
In 2000, Condoleezza Rice expressed her stance on abortion, characterizing herself as "kind of libertarian" on the issue. She supported parental choice, parental notification, and a ban on late-term abortion but believed in uniting people rather than government intervention in personal matters.
2000: Foreign Policy Advisor and Republican National Convention Speech
In 2000, Condoleezza Rice took a leave of absence from Stanford University to be George W. Bush's foreign policy advisor during his presidential campaign. Leading a group of advisors called "the Vulcans," she delivered a notable speech at the Republican National Convention, stating that America's armed forces are not a global police force.
January 15, 2001: Resignation from Chevron and National Security Advisor Appointment
Rice resigned from her position at Chevron on January 15, 2001, to assume the role of National Security Advisor under President George W. Bush. Chevron had named an oil tanker after her, but it was later renamed due to controversy.
July 10, 2001: Meeting with CIA Director on Terrorist Threats
On July 10, 2001, Condoleezza Rice met with CIA Director George Tenet to discuss potential terrorist threats against the United States. This meeting, called an "emergency meeting" by Tenet, emphasized the urgency of the situation and the potential for an al Qaeda attack.
July 2001: Multiple Meetings with CIA Director on Terrorist Threats
During July 2001, Condoleezza Rice had numerous meetings with CIA Director George Tenet regarding terrorist threats. These meetings highlighted the ongoing concerns and discussions surrounding potential attacks on U.S. interests.
August 6, 2001: President's Daily Brief on Terrorist Threats
On August 6, 2001, Condoleezza Rice received the President's Daily Brief, which warned of a potential al Qaeda attack on the United States. Rice later characterized this information as "historical," based on old reporting, despite claims that it contained current intelligence.
September 11, 2001: Scheduled National Security Policy Outline
On September 11, 2001, Condoleezza Rice was scheduled to outline a new national security policy that prioritized missile defense and downplayed the threat of stateless terrorism. However, the September 11th terrorist attacks occurred on this day, significantly impacting the national security landscape.
2001: Condoleezza Rice is appointed National Security Advisor
In 2001, Condoleezza Rice was appointed as the 19th U.S. National Security Advisor, making her the first woman to hold the position.
2001: Championing American Values as Secretary of State
In 2001, as Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice advocated for the spread of democratic principles and other American ideals, linking the September 11 attacks to "oppression and despair" and stressing the need to promote democratic reform in the Middle East.
April 2002: Performance with Yo-Yo Ma
In April 2002, Condoleezza Rice showcased her musical talents by accompanying renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma in a performance of Johannes Brahms' Violin Sonata in D minor at Constitution Hall for the National Medal of Arts Awards.
July 17, 2002: Meeting with CIA Director to Approve Waterboarding
On July 17, 2002, Condoleezza Rice met with CIA Director George Tenet to convey the Bush administration's approval of waterboarding as an interrogation technique for suspected al Qaeda leader Abu Zubaydah. This approval sparked significant controversy due to the widespread condemnation of waterboarding as torture.
December 8, 2002: Publication of "Why We Know Iraq Is Lying"
On December 8, 2002, following Iraq's declaration of weapons of mass destruction to the United Nations, Condoleezza Rice penned an editorial for The New York Times titled "Why We Know Iraq Is Lying." This editorial reflected the Bush administration's stance on Iraq's alleged possession of WMDs.
2002: Initial Public Perception
A 2002 survey indicated that Condoleezza Rice, then National Security Advisor, was viewed favorably by 41% of black respondents, while a significant portion remained unfamiliar with her.
2002: North Korea's Secret Nuclear Program Revealed
North Korea's undisclosed nuclear weapons program, violating the 1994 agreement, was revealed in 2002.
2002: Recognition from Former Stanford President
In 2002, former Stanford president Gerhard Casper praised Rice's talents and acknowledged her unique character, mentioning that her being a woman, black, and young were factors in her appointment.
January 10, 2003: Statement About Saddam Hussein's Nuclear Capabilities
On January 10, 2003, during a CNN interview, Condoleezza Rice made a significant statement about Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's nuclear capabilities. She warned that there's uncertainty about how quickly Hussein could acquire nuclear weapons and emphasized the danger of waiting for a "smoking gun" in the form of a "mushroom cloud."
January 18, 2003: Involvement in Bush Administration's Stance on Race-Based Preferences
On January 18, 2003, reports emerged about Condoleezza Rice's involvement in shaping President Bush's position on race-based preferences. Rice's stance acknowledged the preference for race-neutral approaches but considered race as a potential factor among others in university admissions.
October 2003: Appointment to Lead the Iraq Stabilization Group
In October 2003, Condoleezza Rice was tasked with leading the Iraq Stabilization Group. The group's mission was to reduce violence in Iraq and Afghanistan and accelerate reconstruction efforts in both countries.
2003: Reports Surface of Potential Gubernatorial Run
Reports emerged in 2003 suggesting that Condoleezza Rice was considering running for Governor of California, although she dismissed the idea of running for the Senate in 2004.
2003: North Korea Withdraws from Non-Proliferation Treaty
North Korea officially pulled out of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in 2003.
2003: Criticism from Dick Cheney
In 2003, former Vice President Dick Cheney, in his book "In My Time," criticized Condoleezza Rice's handling of nuclear diplomacy with North Korea and her advice on the tone of President Bush's speeches on Iraq.
2003: Receipt of the U.S. Senator John Heinz Award
In 2003, Condoleezza Rice was honored with the U.S. Senator John Heinz Award for Greatest Public Service by an Elected or Appointed Official. This prestigious award, presented by Jefferson Awards, recognized her contributions to public service.
2003: Home Purchase with Randy Bean
In 2003, Condoleezza Rice and Randy Bean jointly purchased a home in Palo Alto, California. Initially, they shared ownership with Stanford professor Coit D. Blacker, but he later sold his share to the two women.
2003: Meeting with CIA on Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
In 2003, Condoleezza Rice, Vice President Dick Cheney, and Attorney General John Ashcroft met with the CIA to discuss the use of enhanced interrogation techniques, including waterboarding, sleep deprivation, and stress positions. They reaffirmed the legality of the CIA program and its alignment with administration policy.
March 2004: Declining to Testify Before the 9/11 Commission
In March 2004, Condoleezza Rice declined to testify before the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (the 9/11 Commission), citing executive privilege and separation of powers. This decision sparked controversy and raised questions about transparency and accountability.
May 2004: Reports of Inactivity of the Iraq Stabilization Group
By May 2004, reports emerged suggesting that the Iraq Stabilization Group, led by Condoleezza Rice, had become largely inactive. The group's effectiveness in achieving its goals of stabilizing Iraq and Afghanistan was questioned.
November 16, 2004: Nomination for Secretary of State
On November 16, 2004, President Bush nominated Condoleezza Rice for the position of Secretary of State.
2004: Rice Rules Out Senate Run
Condoleezza Rice ruled out running for Senate in 2004, further solidifying her focus on her current political roles and potentially hinting at future aspirations.
2004: Campaigning for President Bush's Re-election
In 2004, Condoleezza Rice became the first National Security Advisor to actively campaign for an incumbent president. She defended the Bush administration's decision to invade Iraq, arguing that while Saddam Hussein was not directly involved in the 9/11 attacks, his unstable regime contributed to the circumstances that led to the attacks.
2004: Time 100 Recognition and Annual Feature
Condoleezza Rice continued to be recognized for her influence, appearing on the Time 100 list in 2004, the year the list transitioned into an annual feature.
2004: Ranked Most Powerful Woman by Forbes
Condoleezza Rice achieved the top ranking as the world's most powerful woman by Forbes magazine in 2004.
January 2005: Senator Boxer's Criticism of Rice During Confirmation Hearing
During Condoleezza Rice's confirmation hearing for U.S. Secretary of State in January 2005, Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) criticized Rice's role in promoting the Iraq War, suggesting that Rice's loyalty to the mission overshadowed her commitment to truth.
January 2005: Introduction of the Term "Outposts of Tyranny"
During President Bush's second inauguration in January 2005, Rice used the term "outposts of tyranny" to describe countries she believed posed threats to global peace and human rights. She identified Cuba, Zimbabwe, Burma, Belarus, Iran, and North Korea as such outposts.
January 26, 2005: Confirmation as Secretary of State
On January 26, 2005, the Senate confirmed Condoleezza Rice's nomination for Secretary of State by a vote of 85-13.
July 29, 2005: Speech on Counterterrorism
On July 29, 2005, Condoleezza Rice delivered a speech asserting that counterterrorism efforts should not only address governments and organizations supporting terrorism but also the ideologies that fuel it. She emphasized the need to combat hatred and promote liberty and democracy in foreign societies.
August 2005: Criticism from Harry Belafonte
In August 2005, musician and activist Harry Belafonte sparked controversy by referring to black members of the Bush administration, including Condoleezza Rice, as "black tyrants."
August 2005: Declining Ratings and Criticism
Condoleezza Rice's approval ratings declined in August 2005 following Hurricane Katrina and the controversy surrounding her confirmation as Secretary of State. Some black commentators questioned her stances on various issues.
September 14, 2005: Response to Criticisms on Race
On September 14, 2005, Condoleezza Rice addressed criticisms about her stance on racial issues, stating, "Why would I worry about something like that? ... The fact of the matter is I've been black all my life. Nobody needs to tell me how to be black."
December 18, 2005: Rice Advocates for Preventative Counter-Terrorism Measures
In an interview on December 18, 2005, Condoleezza Rice emphasized her view of counter-terrorism as a matter of prevention rather than just punishment, highlighting the importance of intelligence in preventing attacks.
2005: Condoleezza Rice becomes the first female African-American Secretary of State
In 2005, Condoleezza Rice made history by becoming the first female African-American to serve as the United States Secretary of State.
2005: Secretary of State and Nuclear Threat Prevention
Rice assumed the position of Secretary of State in 2005, where she played a crucial role in addressing the nuclear threats from North Korea and Iran.
2005: Benefit Concert with Charity Sunshine Tillemann-Dick
Condoleezza Rice joined forces with soprano Charity Sunshine Tillemann-Dick in 2005 for a benefit concert in support of the Pulmonary Hypertension Association at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
2005: North Korea Agrees to Nuclear Disarmament
North Korea consented to relinquish its nuclear program in 2005, in return for security guarantees and economic benefits.
2005: Ranked Most Powerful Woman by Forbes
Condoleezza Rice retained her position as the world's most powerful woman, according to Forbes magazine's ranking in 2005.
2006: Ranked Second Most Powerful Woman by Forbes
In 2006, Forbes magazine ranked Condoleezza Rice as the second most powerful woman globally, following German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
2006: Response to Inquiries About July 2001 Meeting
In 2006, when questioned about the July 2001 meeting with George Tenet, Condoleezza Rice stated she had no specific recollection of that particular meeting. She emphasized the frequency of her meetings with Tenet that summer to discuss terrorist threats and maintained that she would not have disregarded such threats.
2006: North Korea's Missile Test and UN Response
North Korea conducted long-range missile tests in 2006, prompting the UN Security Council to demand the suspension of its program.
2006: US-India Nuclear Agreement
As Secretary of State in 2006, Rice was involved in negotiating the US-India nuclear agreement, emphasizing India's democratic values and its potential as a strategic partner.
January 11, 2007: Senator Boxer's Comments on the Iraq War's Human Cost
During a debate on the Iraq War on January 11, 2007, Senator Barbara Boxer highlighted the human cost of the conflict, emphasizing the sacrifices made by the American military and their families.
February 1, 2007: Time Magazine's Critique of Rice's Influence
On February 1, 2007, Time magazine, despite including Rice on its Time 100 list multiple times, published a critique of her influence as Secretary of State, suggesting that her accomplishments were modest and fading, and that she had been slow to recognize the decline of U.S. prestige.
March 19, 2007: Time Magazine Acknowledges Rice's Foreign Policy Shift
On March 19, 2007, Time magazine acknowledged a shift in Condoleezza Rice's approach to U.S. foreign policy, describing it as an "unmistakable course correction." This followed their previous critique of her tenure as Secretary of State.
April 2007: Rejection of House Subpoena Regarding Prewar Claims About Iraq
In April 2007, Condoleezza Rice rejected a House subpoena related to prewar claims that Iraq sought yellowcake uranium from Niger. Citing executive privilege, she refused to provide testimony or documents, further fueling controversy surrounding the Iraq War.
2007: Criticism from Conservatives
In 2007, Condoleezza Rice faced criticism from conservatives like Stephen Hayes for her approach to Russia policy and for seemingly abandoning the Bush Doctrine, including the Iraq War troop surge.
2007: Nuclear Agreement with North Korea
Rice participated in another nuclear agreement with North Korea in 2007, where North Korea agreed to shut down its main nuclear reactor in exchange for fuel and aid worth $400 million.
2007: Public Revelation of Homeownership
The nature of Condoleezza Rice and Randy Bean's shared homeownership was first revealed in 2007 by Glenn Kessler in his book "The Confidante: Condoleezza Rice and the Creation of the Bush Legacy," sparking speculation about their relationship.
February 22, 2008: Rice Dismisses Vice Presidential Speculation
On February 22, 2008, Condoleezza Rice publicly dismissed suggestions that she might be considered for the Republican vice presidential nomination.
March 26, 2008: Rice Attends Americans for Tax Reform Meeting
Condoleezza Rice's presence at Grover Norquist's Americans for Tax Reform meeting on March 26, 2008, fueled speculation about her potential vice presidential aspirations.
March 27, 2008: Rice Reiterates Disinterest in Vice Presidency
During an interview on March 27, 2008, Condoleezza Rice firmly stated her lack of interest in running for vice president, despite speculation and polls suggesting her as a potential candidate.
April 6, 2008: Senor Claims Rice Campaigning for Vice Presidency
Republican strategist Dan Senor claimed on April 6, 2008, that Condoleezza Rice was actively campaigning for the vice presidential nomination, citing her attendance at a conservative leader's meeting. Rice's spokesperson denied these claims.
July 2008: John Bolton's Criticism of the Bush Administration's Late-Term Reversals
In July 2008, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton criticized the Bush administration for what he perceived as policy reversals toward the end of its term, suggesting that these actions damaged the administration's credibility.
August 2008: McCain Selects Palin as Running Mate
The speculation regarding a potential McCain-Rice ticket for the 2008 election ended in August when John McCain chose Sarah Palin as his running mate.
December 2008: Rice Praises Clinton's Appointment as Secretary of State
Condoleezza Rice expressed positive sentiments towards Hillary Clinton's selection as Secretary of State in December 2008, acknowledging her intelligence and capability.
December 2008: Farewell and Future Plans
During a farewell interview in December 2008, Rice announced her intention to return to Stanford and the Hoover Institution, focusing on writing and teaching.
2008: Barack Obama's election leads to Condoleezza Rice and Colin Powell no longer being the highest-ranking African Americans in the federal executive branch
With the election of Barack Obama as President in 2008, Condoleezza Rice and her predecessor, Colin Powell, ceased to be the highest-ranking African Americans in the history of the federal executive branch.
January 2009: Appointment to Kennedy Center Board of Trustees
As her tenure as Secretary of State came to a close, Condoleezza Rice was appointed by President Bush to a six-year term on the board of trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in January 2009.
January 2009: Elaboration on Return to Stanford
In January 2009, Rice provided more details about her return to Stanford in an interview with the Stanford Report.
February 2009: Rice Signs Three-Book Deal
In February 2009, Condoleezza Rice signed a three-book deal with Crown Publishers. The deal, worth at least \$2.5 million, was for Rice to write about her time in the White House and as Secretary of State.
February 2009: Declined Pac-10 Commissioner Position
Rice was approached to become a Pac-10 Commissioner in February 2009 but declined to return to Stanford University.
March 1, 2009: Return to Stanford and the Hoover Institution
On March 1, 2009, Rice returned to Stanford as a political science professor and senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, assuming the roles of Denning Professor in Global Business and the Economy, Thomas and Barbara Stephenson Senior Fellow on Public Policy, and professor of political science.
March 2009: Condoleezza Rice returns to Stanford University
Following her time as Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice returned to Stanford University in March 2009 as a political science professor and the Thomas and Barbara Stephenson Senior Fellow on Public Policy at the Hoover Institution.
April 2009: Statement on Authorization of Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
In April 2009, while speaking at Stanford University, Condoleezza Rice addressed her role in authorizing enhanced interrogation techniques. She stated that she did not personally authorize torture but conveyed the administration's authorization to the CIA. Rice maintained that the authorized techniques did not violate the Convention Against Torture.
2009: Selection for the U.S. Air Force Academy's Thomas D. White National Defense Award
In 2009, Condoleezza Rice was selected to receive the U.S. Air Force Academy's Thomas D. White National Defense Award in recognition of her contributions to national defense and security.
2009: Appearance on The Tonight Show
During a 2009 appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," Condoleezza Rice revealed that her favorite band is Led Zeppelin.
2009: Condoleezza Rice's tenure as Secretary of State ends
Condoleezza Rice's tenure as the 66th United States Secretary of State ended in 2009.
August 2010: Receipt of the U.S. Air Force Academy's Thomas D. White National Defense Award
In August 2010, Condoleezza Rice received the U.S. Air Force Academy's 2009 Thomas D. White National Defense Award. This award recognized her significant contributions to the defense and security of the United States.
September 2010: Condoleezza Rice joins Stanford Graduate School of Business
In September 2010, Condoleezza Rice became a faculty member of the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a director of its Global Center for Business and the Economy.
October 2010: Meeting with President Obama
Condoleezza Rice met with President Obama in October 2010 to discuss national security concerns.
2010: Views on Same-Sex Marriage and Civil Unions
In 2010, Condoleezza Rice stated her belief that marriage should be between a man and a woman but expressed support for civil unions as a way for same-sex couples to formalize their relationships.
2010: Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family Publication
In 2010, Condoleezza Rice published "Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family", a memoir about her upbringing and the impact of the civil rights movement on her life.
May 2011: Reaction to Osama bin Laden's Death
In May 2011, Condoleezza Rice expressed her satisfaction over the death of Osama bin Laden, describing it as a significant chapter closure for the United States. She also maintained her stance against withdrawing troops from Afghanistan until the establishment of stable governance.
2011: No Higher Honor: A Memoir of My Years in Washington Publication
Condoleezza Rice published her second memoir, "No Higher Honor: A Memoir of My Years in Washington," in 2011, focusing on her time in the Bush administration and the challenges of shaping foreign policy.
2011: Response to Donald Rumsfeld's Criticism
In 2011, Condoleezza Rice responded to criticism from former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, who had characterized her as inexperienced and out of her depth during their time in the Bush administration. Rice refuted Rumsfeld's assertions.
May 2012: Commencement Address at SMU
Condoleezza Rice delivered the keynote address at Southern Methodist University's commencement ceremony in May 2012.
August 2012: Romney Chooses Ryan as Running Mate
Mitt Romney selected Paul Ryan as his running mate in August 2012, putting an end to speculation about Condoleezza Rice potentially being chosen for the position.
August 20, 2012: Admission to Augusta National Golf Club
On August 20, 2012, Condoleezza Rice made history by becoming one of the first two women, along with Darla Moore, to be admitted as members to the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club.
October 2013: Rice Joins College Football Playoff Selection Committee
Condoleezza Rice was selected as one of the thirteen inaugural members of the College Football Playoff selection committee in October 2013.
2013: Criticism of Iran's Nuclear Program
In 2013, Condoleezza Rice publicly accused Iran of dishonesty and deception regarding its nuclear program, citing their history of concealment and lack of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
March 2014: Participation in the Ban Bossy Campaign
Condoleezza Rice joined the Ban Bossy campaign in March 2014, appearing in video spots advocating against the use of the word "bossy" to describe young girls. The campaign aimed to shed light on the word's potentially harmful effects on girls' self-esteem and leadership aspirations.
October 2014: Rice's Dedication to College Football Playoff Selection Committee
In October 2014, Condoleezza Rice revealed her intensive process of watching numerous college football games weekly for her role on the selection committee.
2014: Criticism of Obama Administration's Immigration Reform Approach
In 2014, Condoleezza Rice criticized the Obama administration's approach to immigration reform, specifically their attempt to bypass Congress and implement changes through executive action.
2014: Named to ESPNW Impact 25
In 2014, Condoleezza Rice was recognized for her influence and achievements by being named to the ESPNW Impact 25, a list celebrating women who have made significant contributions to the world of sports.
2014: Ban Bossy Campaign Spokesperson
In 2014, Rice joined the Ban Bossy campaign as a spokesperson, advocating for girls' leadership development.
August 2015: High Point University Commencement Speaker Announcement
High Point University revealed in August 2015 that Condoleezza Rice would deliver the commencement address at their 2016 graduation ceremony.
2015: Call for Investigation by Human Rights Watch
In 2015, Human Rights Watch called for an investigation into Condoleezza Rice's role in authorizing enhanced interrogation techniques. They urged an inquiry into her potential involvement in conspiracy to torture and other crimes.
2016: Rice Concludes Term on College Football Playoff Selection Committee
Condoleezza Rice's term on the College Football Playoff selection committee ended after the 2016 college football season.
2016: High Point University Commencement Address
Condoleezza Rice delivered a well-received commencement address at High Point University in 2016, garnering attention from various media outlets.
January 26, 2017: Comments on President Trump's Administration
On January 26, 2017, Condoleezza Rice expressed her view that the United States had entered unfamiliar territory with President Donald Trump's presidency due to his lack of prior government experience.
February 2017: Opposition to Trump Administration's Travel Ban
Condoleezza Rice publicly expressed her opposition to the Trump administration's travel ban in February 2017.
May 2017: Opposition to Removal of Confederate Monuments
In May 2017, Condoleezza Rice voiced her opposition to the removal of Confederate monuments and the renaming of buildings bearing the names of Confederate generals. She argued that erasing history could lead to its repetition.
2017: Sale of Palo Alto Home
Condoleezza Rice and Randy Bean sold their shared home in Palo Alto, California in 2017, after co-owning it for 14 years.
2017: Condoleezza Rice publishes "Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom"
In 2017, Condoleezza Rice published her book, "Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom", in which she reflects on her family history, including her ancestors' experiences with slavery.
2017: Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom Publication
In 2017, Rice released "Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom," advocating for democracy and reflecting on its importance based on her experiences during segregation.
November 18, 2018: Rice Considered as Potential Candidate for Cleveland Browns Head Coach
On November 18, 2018, there were reports that Condoleezza Rice was being considered as a candidate for the Cleveland Browns' head coach position, which sparked controversy and amusement due to her lack of coaching experience. Both Rice and the Browns denied the reports.
2018: Views on North Korea
Condoleezza Rice characterized North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's diplomatic efforts towards South Korea as "clever" in 2018 and highlighted his isolation and recklessness compared to his predecessors. She advocated for a cautious and measured approach to negotiations with North Korea, emphasizing the importance of denuclearization.
2018: Woodward's Book Reveals Potential Pence-Rice Ticket
Bob Woodward's 2018 book "Fear: Trump in the White House" revealed that Mike Pence, during discussions about Donald Trump potentially dropping out of the 2016 presidential race, had agreed to replace Trump as the nominee, with Condoleezza Rice as his running mate.
September 2019: Criticism of Trump's Rhetoric and Impeachment Inquiry
By September 2019, Condoleezza Rice had publicly criticized President Trump's rhetoric, particularly on immigration. She also expressed concern over Trump's request for Ukraine to investigate an American citizen and the perceived conflict between foreign policy professionals and Rudy Giuliani.
January 2020: Condoleezza Rice announced as next director of the Hoover Institution
It was announced in January 2020 that Condoleezza Rice would be the next director of the Hoover Institution.
September 1, 2020: Condoleezza Rice assumes directorship of the Hoover Institution
Condoleezza Rice succeeded Thomas W. Gilligan as the director of the Hoover Institution on September 1, 2020.
2020: Bush Reveals Write-In Vote for Rice in 2020 Election
Former President George W. Bush disclosed that he cast a write-in vote for Condoleezza Rice in the 2020 presidential election, although Rice had stated she would not accept the office if elected.
August 2021: Criticism of US Withdrawal from Afghanistan
In August 2021, Condoleezza Rice criticized the handling of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, arguing that it was too hasty and that blaming Afghans for the Taliban's takeover was unjust.
April 2022: Attendance at Madeleine Albright's Funeral
Condoleezza Rice attended the funeral of former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright in April 2022, where she delivered a reading from the Bible.
July 11, 2022: Joined Denver Broncos Ownership Group
Rice joined the Walton-Penner ownership group, set to acquire the Denver Broncos for $4.65 billion, on July 11, 2022.
August 9, 2022: NFL Approves Broncos Ownership Change
On August 9, 2022, the NFL owners gave their approval for the Walton-Penner group's purchase of the Denver Broncos.
2023: Emphasis on Supporting Ukraine
Following criticism from former President Trump and Governor DeSantis regarding US support for Ukraine, Condoleezza Rice stressed the importance of potential presidential candidates understanding the core issue of the conflict: upholding a rules-based international order.