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John R. Fernandez Confirmed As U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development

September 11, 2009
Contact: Bryan Borlik, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today praised the U.S. Senate's vote to confirm John R. Fernandez as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.

"I applaud the Senate for voting to confirm John Fernandez as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development," Locke said. "The Economic Development Administration is a vital player in helping to realize President Obama's ambitious agenda to turn around the economy and put people back to work. The leadership and expertise John developed at the local level will be critical in his new role."

"I am honored to be serving President Obama in the role of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development," said Fernandez. "I look forward to working with EDA's staff and our colleagues at the Department of Commerce as we work to promote innovation and restore economic growth in communities throughout the United States."

A former Mayor of Bloomington, Mr. Fernandez grew up in Kokomo, Indiana. He earned his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs and his Juris Doctor from the Indiana University School of Law. After clerking for a state supreme court justice, Mr. Fernandez entered the private practice of law. He served on the Bloomington City Council for five years and as its president in 1991. Before joining the Obama administration, Mr. Fernandez served as Senior Vice President & Partner at First Capital Group. Additionally, Mr. Fernandez advised public and private organizations as an attorney with Krieg DeVault, an Indianapolis-based law firm.

The Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration supports the economic development needs of distressed communities throughout the United States. Its mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.

Additional information on how EDA investments are helping distressed communities create a positive and sustainable economic future can be accessed at: http://www.eda.gov.