Statement by U.S. Ambassador Susan E. Rice, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, on the Confirmation of Joseph M. Torsella as U.S. Representative for UN Management and Reform

Susan E. Rice
U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 
U.S. Mission to the United Nations 

New York, NY

April 15, 2011

I am delighted that last night the U.S. Senate confirmed Joseph M. Torsella, President Obama’s nominee for U.S. Representative for UN Management and Reform. Joe brings a wealth of talent, knowledge, and experience to this vital job. In Joe, the United States will have another outstanding advocate for serious, sustained, and comprehensive UN reform.  

The United States is working urgently and determinedly toward a leaner and more effective United Nations that can more fully realize its founding values, prevent conflict, help halt nuclear proliferation, isolate human rights abusers, promote democracy, and provide lifesaving food, medicine, and shelter. As Ambassador, Joe will head a team that, under the able leadership of acting Ambassador Joe Melrose, has continually pushed for much-needed reforms – from a more disciplined UN budget and a more mobile, meritocratic UN civilian workforce to a culture of greater transparency and accountability. Across the U.S. government, we are working tirelessly to ensure that U.S. taxpayer money is spent wisely. As Ambassador, Joe Torsella will energetically champion a more efficient and effective UN, which is critical to enhancing the security of all Americans.

Biography of Joseph M. Torsella, U.S. Representative to the United Nations for UN Management and Reform

Joseph M. Torsella currently serves as Chairman of the Pennsylvania State Board of Education.  He was the founding President and CEO of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, a non-profit museum and education center dedicated to explaining and celebrating American ideas and ideals. He has also been a small business owner and Deputy Mayor for Policy and Planning in Philadelphia. Mr. Torsella is a former Rhodes Scholar and Phi Beta Kappa graduate with a B.A. in History and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.  

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