Valerie June Jarrett, known previously as Valerie Bowman, is a name that resonates with both entrepreneurship and American politics. Jarrett has distinguished herself over her lifetime by excelling at multiple disciplines: entrepreneurship, executive management, law practice management and political advocacy. From local to national politics – most prominently as Senior Advisor for President Barack Obama – her contributions have been immense.
Career Overview
From Local Politics to the National Stage
Valerie Jarrett’s political journey is nothing short of remarkable. Jarrett began her political career in the late 1980s and has held various roles that span both local and national governance. Most notably, she achieved national fame while serving as Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama from 2009 until 2017.
A Guiding Force in the Obama-Biden Transition
Beyond her role as a Senior Advisor, Jarrett played a critical role as a co-chair in the Obama-Biden Transition Project, which set the tone for the Obama administration. She has maintained a close professional relationship with the Obama family, becoming the CEO of the Obama Foundation in October 2021.
A Glimpse in the Media
Valerie Jarrett’s political influence is not restricted to behind-the-scenes policy making. Alongside Donna Brazile, she was one of the rare political personalities to make an on-screen appearance as herself in the popular CBS television series “The Good Wife.”
Valerie Jarrett Religion: A Personal Affair
Privacy in Spirituality
Despite being a public figure, Valerie Jarrett has opted to keep her religious beliefs a private matter. This choice is intriguing to many, especially given her birth in Iran, a predominantly Muslim country. Her decision has fueled speculation about whether she identifies as Muslim, Christian, Jewish, or follows some other spiritual path.
Public Speculation and Personal Boundaries
Though the public may be curious, Jarrett’s religious beliefs remain her own prerogative to disclose. The lack of information only fuels the speculation, yet the decision to keep this aspect of her life private is entirely hers to make.
A Rich Ethnic Background
A Tapestry of Heritage
Born to American parents, James E. Bowman and Barbara T. Bowman, in Shiraz, Iran, Valerie Jarrett possesses a rich ethnic heritage. A DNA analysis on the show “Finding Your Roots” revealed that her ancestry is 49% European, 46% African, and 5% Native American. Interestingly, her great-grandfather reportedly also had Jewish heritage.
Family’s Pioneering Spirit
Notably, her maternal great-grandfather, Robert Robinson Taylor, was the first recognized African-American architect and the first African-American student at MIT. Her maternal grandfather, Robert Rochon Taylor, was the chairman of the Chicago Housing Authority in the 1940s, another groundbreaking role in American history.
Valerie Jarrett’s Family: A Legacy of Advocacy and Education
Early Years and Family Influence
Jarrett’s father was a pathologist and geneticist who worked in Shiraz when she was born in 1956. The family later moved to London for a year and finally settled in Chicago in 1963. Valerie grew up speaking Persian, French, and English.
A Commitment to Child Development
Jarrett’s mother played a significant role in establishing the Erikson Institute in 1966. The institution aims to serve as a valuable resource for child development experts, highlighting the family’s long-term commitment to education and social welfare.
Valerie Jarrett’s journey is a testament to a life committed to public service, advocacy, and leadership. As she continues to influence American politics and social issues, her legacy remains an inspiration for many, even as certain aspects of her life, such as her religious beliefs, remain a personal and private matter.
