For Immediate Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Beth Paige took the oath of office today as the new U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director for Jordan. USAID Counselor Hilda Arellano presided over the ceremony and administered the oath.
As Mission Director for Jordan, Paige will be responsible for managing a wide range of programs, including rule of law and human rights, elections and political process, civil society, health care, education, youth, poverty alleviation, and economic programs. The budget for these programs was more than $360 million in fiscal year 2011. The United States and Jordan have been partners in Jordan's development for nearly 60 years. USAID assistance supports the Government of Jordan on its path to growth and development and facilitates its work as a regional partner for peace and security.
Counselor Arellano lauded Paige for bringing "the exact mix of skills to the table," and praised Beth for her "guidance, technical expertise, tireless energy and vision." Arellano also recognized that Paige's leadership and talent would be "vitally important at this critical juncture in the United States - Jordanian relationship."
Prior to her appointment in Jordan, Paige served as the Provincial Director of USAID's new Provincial Office in Lahore, Pakistan. From 2009-2010, Paige represented USAID at the U.S. Army War College where she served a dual role as the USAID Senior Advisor to the Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute (PKSOI) and as Professor for International Development. Paige also served as the USAID Mission Director to Nepal from 2007-2009 during a critical time in Nepal's peace process. As a Senior Foreign Service Officer with over 20 years of experience in USAID, her other overseas tours include Bangladesh, El Salvador, Kenya, Mali and Egypt.
Paige received her bachelor's degree in political science and master's degree in agriculture from Southern Illinois University. Ms. Paige is a resident of Houston, Texas. Her three children -- Suzanne, Stephen and Nicholas -- all attend college in the United States.
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