1998.10.21c : Statement by HHS Secretary Donna E. Shalala on the Confirmation of Jane Henney, M.D. to be Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration

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Date: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1998
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE				
Contact:  HHS Press Office  (202) 690-6343

Statement by HHS Secretary Donna E. Shalala on the Confirmation of Jane Henney, M.D. to be Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration

Following the Senate vote to confirm Dr. Jane Henney as Commissioner of Food and Drugs today, Health and Human Services Secretary Donna E. Shalala had the following comment:

"Jane Henney is a seasoned professional who brings substantial management skills and a depth of experience to the agency. The FDA safeguards food and drugs from the factory to the store shelf to every medicine cabinet and kitchen cupboard in America. Dr. Henney has the judgment to carry out that vital responsibility in a changing health marketplace, and I know she will forge new and productive relationships with consumers and industry.

"With her impressive medical and academic credentials, Dr. Henney will work to keep FDA agile and responsive, and her experience as a former deputy at FDA will help her lead this complex organization as it continues to reform and modernize.

"As Dr. Henney prepares to take the FDA into the next century, I'd like to add my gratitude and appreciation for Dr. Michael Friedman's extraordinary service as acting FDA commissioner. His leadership and professionalism have served the nation well over the past 18 months, and I commend him."