Sara Martinez Tucker has been confirmed to the No. 3 position at the Department of Education, where she will be a key adviser on higher education.
In her role as undersecretary, Ms. Tucker will help Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings implement her higher education agenda, which includes simplifying access to federal student-aid programs.
Prior to joining the department, Ms. Tucker was president of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, a San Francisco-based group.
At the Education Department, she will also oversee vocational education, adult education, and student financial aid.
On Dec. 8, the Senate confirmed Ms. Tucker and several other federal nominees on a 93-0 vote.
