Former Lehigh University Trustee Richard Verma Confirmed Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources

Verma is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he served on active duty as a Judge Advocate. His military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal and Air Force Commendation Medal, and he is a recipient of the State Department's Distinguished Service Award. He holds his doctorate (Ph.D.) from Georgetown University with a specialization in international relations and his law degree (J.D.) from American University.

President Joe Biden announced his intent to nominate Richard R. Verma to be Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources on Dec. 23, 2022. His Senate confirmation hearing was held Feb. 16, and he was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on March 30, 2023.

Verma addressed the Lehigh Class of 2019 as the keynote Commencement speaker. In his address, Verma shared life lessons gleaned from three decades on the world stage, urging Lehigh graduates to maximize the unprecedented opportunities they have been given to face the world with “the humility and responsibility that comes with power.”

“Did I make a difference? Am I living a good life? Have I served others? Was I there when my family, my friends or my community needed me? I know that answer will be yes. That’s what Lehigh prepared you to do,” he said.