First Lady Michelle Obama’s new communications director is Puerto Rican Maria Cristina “MC” Gonzalez Noguera. Gonzalez Noguera will also serve as special assistant to President Obama.
Maria Cristina “MC” Gonzalez Noguera was born in San Juan and earned her degree at Tufts University. She was managing director for the Washington, D.C., strategic communications firm Chlopak, Leonard, Schechter & Associates and is currently the global vice president of corporate communications for Estee Lauder. Forbes described her as a “rising Latina Star.” Forbes is suggesting that the Obamas realize this is a good time, politically, to have Hispanic staffers in the White House. In fact, the article goes on to say that Gonzalez Noguera “she is Puerto Rican, which could matter in the next few years as Congress begins readdressing the question of Puerto Rico’s status.”
Gonzalez Noguera has been active in matters related to corporate responsibility at Estee Lauder, and a statement from the East Wing described her as being very committed to the family issues on which Michelle Obama focuses in her public life.
Governor Garcia Padilla sent congratulations to Gonzalez Noguera, expressing hope that she will continue to be an excellent role model for the young people of Puerto Rico.
