Susan Elizabeth Rice is an American diplomat and public official who has held significant roles in the United States government. A member of the Democratic Party, she served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2009-2013), National Security Advisor (2013-2017), and Director of the Domestic Policy Council (2021-2023). Her career reflects a focus on foreign policy and domestic issues.
1919: Birth of Emmett J. Rice
Emmett J. Rice, Susan Rice's father, was born in 1919.
November 17, 1964: Birth of Susan Rice
Susan Elizabeth Rice was born on November 17, 1964.
1978: Remarriage of Lois Rice
In 1978, Susan Rice's mother, Lois Rice, married Alfred Bradley Fitt, an attorney.
1979: Start of Research on Zimbabwe
Susan Rice's doctoral dissertation research, focusing on the Commonwealth initiative in Zimbabwe from 1979-1980, began in 1979.
1980: Conclusion of Research on Zimbabwe
Susan Rice concluded her research on the Commonwealth initiative in Zimbabwe in 1980, which formed the basis of her doctoral dissertation.
1986: Graduation from Stanford University
Susan Rice graduated with honors from Stanford University in 1986, earning a BA in history.
1988: Foreign Policy Aide to Michael Dukakis
During the 1988 presidential election, Susan Rice served as a foreign policy aide to Michael Dukakis.
1988: Master of Philosophy Degree
Susan Rice earned a Master of Philosophy degree in International Relations from New College, Oxford in 1988.
1990: Doctor of Philosophy Degree
Susan Rice obtained her Doctor of Philosophy degree in International Relations from New College, Oxford in 1990.
1990: Management Consultant at McKinsey & Company
Susan Rice worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company's Toronto office from 1990 to early 1992.
September 12, 1992: Rice Marries Ian Cameron
Susan Rice married Ian Officer Cameron, a former ABC News executive producer, on September 12, 1992, at the St. Albans School chapel in Washington D.C.
1992: End of Tenure at McKinsey & Company
Susan Rice concluded her role as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company in early 1992.
1992: Lois Rice Joins Brookings Institution
In 1992, Susan Rice's mother, Lois Rice, joined the Brookings Institution.
1993: Susan Rice Joins Clinton Administration
In 1993, Susan Rice began her service in the Clinton administration as part of the National Security Council staff.
1993: Start of Service at the National Security Council
Susan Rice began her tenure at the National Security Council (NSC) in 1993.
1994: Response to Rwandan Genocide
During the Rwandan genocide in 1994, Susan Rice's alleged comments about the political implications of using the term "genocide" sparked controversy.
1995: Transition to Senior Director for African Affairs
In 1995, Susan Rice transitioned to the role of Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for African Affairs at the NSC.
1996: Allegations Regarding Rwandan, Ugandan, AFDL, and Angolan Invasion of Zaire
In 1996, during the Rwandan, Ugandan, AFDL, and Angolan invasion of Zaire (later the Democratic Republic of the Congo) and the overthrow of dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, Susan Rice allegedly remarked, "Anything's better than Mobutu." This comment, along with alleged instructions to "look the other way" regarding regional intervention, sparked controversy over the U.S. stance on the conflict.
1997: Confirmation Hearing for Assistant Secretary of State
During her confirmation hearing in 1997 for the position of Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Susan Rice impressed senators from both parties, leading to a smooth confirmation process.
1997: Appointment as Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs
In 1997, Susan Rice was appointed as the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, becoming the youngest person to hold this position at the age of 32.
1997: Appointment as Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs
In 1997, Susan Rice was appointed as the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs.
1997: Alleged Blocking of US Engagement with Sudan
It was alleged that in 1997, Susan Rice was involved in efforts to prevent US officials from engaging with the Sudanese government, despite claims of Sudan's willingness to share intelligence on Osama bin Laden. However, these allegations were later found to be unsubstantiated.
July 7, 1998: Meeting with Nigerian President-Elect Moshood Abiola
On July 7, 1998, Susan Rice participated in a U.S. delegation's visit to detained Nigerian president-elect Basorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. Tragically, Abiola suffered a fatal heart attack during the meeting.
2000: Peacekeeping Efforts in Africa and Recognition
In 2000, Susan Rice received the White House's Samuel Nelson Drew Memorial Award for her significant contributions to international peace and cooperation. She was recognized alongside Gayle Smith and Anthony Lake for her efforts in supporting peace negotiations between Ethiopia and Eritrea during the Eritrean–Ethiopian War, which led to the Algiers Agreement.
2001: Conclusion of Service as Assistant Secretary of State
In 2001, Susan Rice concluded her tenure as the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs.
2001: Managing Director and Principal at Intellibridge
Susan Rice served as managing director and principal at Intellibridge from 2001 to 2002.
December 2002: Public Stance on the Iraq War
In December 2002, Susan Rice expressed her views on the potential Iraq War during an NPR interview, highlighting the gravity of Iraq's threat and emphasizing the need to address its weapons of mass destruction. However, she also stressed the importance of diplomacy and urged the Bush administration to provide a transparent assessment of the potential costs and consequences of military action and post-conflict reconstruction in Iraq.
2002: Allegations Regarding Sudan and Bin Laden Intelligence
In 2002, allegations surfaced accusing Susan Rice of playing a role in blocking US engagement with Sudan despite alleged offers of intelligence on Osama bin Laden. These claims, however, were later deemed unfounded by official investigations.
2002: Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution
Starting in 2002, Susan Rice began her tenure as a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, a position she held until 2009. During this time, she dedicated her research to U.S. foreign policy, fragile states, the impacts of global poverty, and transnational security threats.
2002: Induction into Stanford's Black Alumni Hall of Fame
Susan Rice was inducted into Stanford's Black Alumni Hall of Fame in 2002.
2003: Opposition to the Iraq War
Susan Rice, as a scholar at Brookings, openly opposed the 2003 invasion of Iraq, considering it a diversion from the primary goal of combating Al Qaeda globally and in Afghanistan. She also cautioned about the long-term commitment required for Iraq's rebuilding.
2004: Foreign Policy Advisor to John Kerry
Susan Rice served as a foreign policy advisor to John Kerry during the 2004 presidential campaign.
November 5, 2008: Appointment to the Obama-Biden Transition Advisory Board
On November 5, 2008, Susan Rice was appointed to the advisory board for the Obama-Biden presidential transition team.
December 1, 2008: Nomination for United States Ambassador to the United Nations
President-elect Barack Obama announced his decision to nominate Susan Rice as the United States ambassador to the United Nations on December 1, 2008. This cabinet-level position marked a significant appointment for Rice, although it was reported that she had initially hoped to secure the role of national security advisor, which ultimately went to retired United States Marine Corps general James L. Jones.
2008: Foreign Policy Advisor to Barack Obama
During the 2008 presidential campaign, Susan Rice served as a foreign policy advisor to Barack Obama.
2008: Senior Foreign Policy Advisor to Barack Obama
During the 2008 presidential campaign, Susan Rice joined Barack Obama's team as a senior foreign policy advisor. As one of the first prominent foreign policy experts to support Obama, she notably criticized his Republican opponent, John McCain, characterizing his policies as "reckless" and dismissing his Iraq visit as a superficial photo opportunity.
January 22, 2009: Confirmation as Ambassador to the United Nations
On January 22, 2009, the Senate unanimously confirmed Susan Rice as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations.
March 17, 2011: United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973 and Intervention in Libya
On March 17, 2011, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 1973, with the U.S., UK, France, and Lebanon voting in favor, and Brazil, Germany, India, China, and Russia abstaining. Susan Rice and Hillary Clinton played pivotal roles in garnering support for the resolution, which aimed to protect civilians in Libya and pressure the Gaddafi regime to cease violence and allow Libyans to express their aspirations freely.
April 2011: Role in the Libyan Civil War and Allegations of Mass Rape
During the 2011 Libyan Civil War, Susan Rice took a tough stance against Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, calling his denials of atrocities "delusional." In a Security Council meeting, she alleged that Gaddafi's forces used sexual violence, including distributing Viagra to troops. However, investigations by Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without Borders contradicted these claims, finding no firsthand evidence of mass rapes. Despite this, Rice, along with Samantha Power and Hillary Clinton, advocated for intervention in Libya, ultimately leading to the U.S. supporting a UN proposal for a no-fly zone and authorizing military action.
2011: Death of Emmett J. Rice
Emmett J. Rice, Susan Rice's father, passed away in 2011.
January 2012: Condemnation of Russia and China's Veto on Syria Resolution
In January 2012, after Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to step down, Susan Rice strongly condemned both countries, stating they hindered peaceful conflict resolution efforts. She expressed the U.S.'s disappointment and frustration, emphasizing the U.S.'s support for the Syrian people while accusing Russia and China of siding with Assad.
September 11, 2012: Benghazi Attack
On September 11, 2012, a U.S. diplomatic facility and CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya, was attacked, resulting in the deaths of U.S. personnel, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens.
November 2012: Congressional Criticism over Benghazi Statements
In November 2012, Rice faced criticism from Republican members of Congress who questioned the accuracy of her statements regarding the Benghazi attack.
December 13, 2012: Withdrawal from Secretary of State Consideration
On December 13, 2012, facing criticism from Republicans over her handling of the Benghazi attack, Rice withdrew her name from consideration for Secretary of State.
2012: Interview with The New Republic
In a 2012 interview with The New Republic, Susan Rice addressed the controversy surrounding her alleged comments during the Rwandan genocide, denying certain quotes attributed to her.
2012: Withdrawal from Consideration for Secretary of State
Following the controversy surrounding the 2012 attack on the US diplomatic facility in Benghazi, Susan Rice withdrew her name from consideration as a potential replacement for Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
2012: Negotiating Style and Policy at the United Nations
In 2012, Susan Rice's negotiating approach at the United Nations drew mixed reactions. Some Security Council diplomats criticized her style as overly blunt and "rude," while others attributed such criticism to sexism. David Rothkopf of Foreign Policy acknowledged her "toughness" but highlighted her strong relationship with President Obama and effectiveness as a policymaker. Conversely, human rights activists expressed concerns about Rice's role in the U.S. government's opposition to UN statements condemning Rwanda's support for a rebel group in Congo accused of committing atrocities.
June 5, 2013: Appointment as National Security Advisor
Following Tom Donilon's resignation, Rice was chosen to be the next National Security Advisor on June 5, 2013.
July 1, 2013: Swearing-In as National Security Advisor
Rice was sworn in as National Security Advisor on July 1, 2013.
August 2013: Criticism of Human Rights Violations in Egypt
Rice condemned the August 2013 Rabaa massacre in Egypt and led a review of U.S. assistance to the country, leading to the cancellation of joint military exercises and suspension of arms shipments.
August 2013: Disagreement over Syria Strategy
Rice disagreed with the Obama administration's decision to seek congressional authorization for military strikes in Syria following the Assad regime's use of chemical weapons in August 2013.
2013: Appointment as National Security Advisor
In 2013, President Barack Obama appointed Susan Rice as the National Security Advisor.
2013: Outbreak of South Sudanese Civil War
The South Sudanese Civil War broke out in 2013, posing a significant challenge to U.S. policy in the region.
July 2014: Support for Israel During Gaza Conflict
Rice expressed support for Israel's right to defend itself during the 2014 Israel-Gaza conflict.
2015: Speech on China-U.S. Relations
In a 2015 speech, Rice addressed the issue of Chinese intelligence operations in the U.S., highlighting the strain it placed on bilateral relations.
2015: Criticism of Netanyahu's Speech to Congress
Rice criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for agreeing to address Congress about Iran's nuclear program without coordinating with the Obama administration.
2015: Release of the 2015 National Security Strategy
In 2015, Rice oversaw the release of the National Security Strategy, outlining U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities for the remainder of Obama's second term.
2015: Visit to Pakistan and Warning Over Militant Attacks
During a visit to Pakistan in 2015, Rice cautioned Pakistani leaders about the threat posed by militant attacks in Afghanistan originating from within Pakistan.
2015: Support for Iran Nuclear Deal
As National Security Advisor, Susan Rice played a key role in supporting the US efforts that led to the Iran nuclear deal in 2015.
December 2016: Crown Prince's Visit to Trump Tower
In December 2016, the crown prince of the United Arab Emirates visited Trump Tower, meeting with Trump campaign advisors.
2016: Devin Nunes Announces Investigation
In 2016, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes announced an investigation into allegations that Trump or his associates were caught up in surveillance of foreigners.
2016: Negotiation of U.S.-Israel Military Aid Package
Rice negotiated a new memorandum of understanding between the United States and Israel, securing $38 billion in military aid for Israel, the largest such package in the country's history.
2016: Call for Arms Embargo Against South Sudan
Rice supported an arms embargo against South Sudan in response to the ongoing civil war and human rights abuses. However, the measure was not approved by the UN Security Council.
2016: Unmasking Inquiry Focuses on 2016
The unmasking inquiry specifically examined unmasking requests made during the 2016 election period and the subsequent presidential transition.
March 8, 2017: Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow at American University
Rice assumed the role of distinguished visiting research fellow at American University's School of International Service on March 8, 2017.
April 3, 2017: Report on Unmasking of Trump Officials
On April 3, 2017, a report was released detailing Susan Rice's requests to unmask the identities of Trump transition officials mentioned in intelligence reports. The report sparked controversy and raised questions about the motives behind the requests.
August 2017: H.R. McMaster Clears Rice
In August 2017, National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster, Rice's successor, concluded that Rice did nothing wrong in her requests to unmask identities.
September 2017: Rice Testifies Before House Intelligence Committee
Susan Rice testified before the House Intelligence Committee in September 2017 regarding her requests for unmasking the identities of Trump officials. She explained that her requests stemmed from a redacted intelligence report about a visit by the crown prince of the United Arab Emirates to the United States.
2017: Renewed Chemical Attacks in Syria
Despite the agreement reached in 2013, the Assad regime carried out further chemical attacks in 2017.
2017: Rice Receives Legion of Honour
French President François Hollande awarded Susan Rice the title of commander of the Legion of Honour in 2017 for her contributions to relations between France and the United States.
March 28, 2018: Appointment to Netflix Board of Directors
Rice was appointed to the board of directors at Netflix on March 28, 2018.
April 2019: Rice Declines Senate Run
In April 2019, Susan Rice announced she would not run for the Senate, forgoing a potential challenge against Senator Susan Collins.
May 2020: Attorney General Appoints Prosecutor to Examine Unmasking
In May 2020, Attorney General Bill Barr appointed John Bash to investigate the unmasking practices of the Obama administration.
July 2020: Rice Considered for Vice President
In July 2020, Susan Rice was widely reported to be under consideration for the position of Joe Biden's vice presidential running mate.
August 11, 2020: Kamala Harris Selected as Biden's Running Mate
Kamala Harris was chosen as Joe Biden's running mate on August 11, 2020.
September 5, 2020: Rice Joins Biden-Harris Transition Team
Susan Rice was announced as a member of the Biden-Harris Transition Team advisory council on September 5, 2020.
October 2020: Unmasking Inquiry Concludes
The inquiry into the unmasking practices of the Obama administration, launched in May 2020, concluded in October 2020 with no findings of wrongdoing.
2020: Rice Considers Challenging Collins
Susan Rice considered challenging Senator Susan Collins in the 2020 election after Collins voted to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
2021: Director of the Domestic Policy Council
Susan Rice assumed the role of director of the Domestic Policy Council in the Biden administration in 2021.
May 2022: Bash Report Released
John Bash's report on the unmasking inquiry was released in May 2022, revealing no evidence of improper unmasking requests.
April 2023: Journalist Suggests Negligence in Response to Child Labor Crisis
In April 2023, journalist Hannah Dreier suggested in an article that Susan Rice was among White House officials who may have been negligent in their response to the migrant child labor crisis.
April 24, 2023: Biden Announces Rice's Departure
President Biden announced on April 24, 2023, that Susan Rice would be leaving her role as director of the Domestic Policy Council.
May 24, 2023: Rice Highlights Accomplishments
On May 24, 2023, Susan Rice spoke about her work in domestic and national security policy during her time at the White House.
May 25, 2023: Launch of U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism
The Biden administration, of which Susan Rice was a part, launched the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism on May 25, 2023.
May 26, 2023: Rice's Departure Date
Susan Rice's departure from her position as director of the Domestic Policy Council was scheduled for May 26, 2023.