President Bush has nominated former Virginia Lt. Gov. John H. Hager to be assistant secretary of education for special education and rehabilitative services, U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige has announced.

"John's record of public service and his advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities give him a unique perspective and will enhance our efforts to ensure that all children, including those with disabilities, have the opportunity to learn," Secretary Paige said.

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services assists in the education of children with disabilities and the rehabilitation of adults with disabilities and conducts research to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities regardless of age.

A recognized advocate for people with disabilities, Hager is the former lieutenant governor of the commonwealth of Virginia and most recently served as the assistant to the governor of Virginia for homeland security. He has served as both chairman and a member of several boards and commissions under Virginia Gov. James Gilmore, including the Governor's Disability Commission.

A North Carolina native, Hager earned his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, his M.B.A. degree from Harvard University and holds honorary degrees from Averett College in Danville, Va., Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Va., and the University of Northern Virginia.

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