WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) today released the following statement on the naming of Deputy Chief of Staff Kellie Drakeford LeDet to be the next U.S. Small Business Administration Region II Administrator, which covers New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands:

"Kellie Drakeford LeDet is a tremendous talent and dedicated public servant who has served the people of New Jersey with distinction. The SBA is gaining a tireless worker and accomplished professional who I believe can successfully leverage her experience to increase business opportunities and economic growth throughout the Garden State and Region II. I want to thank the President and his administration for considering Kellie and ultimately appointing her to this important and prestigious post.

"An integral member of my team since I came to the U.S. Senate in 2006, Kellie has led my office's outreach in the small business, law enforcement and African-American communities and provided me with invaluable counsel. Her grant-writing seminars have been instrumental in helping local communities secure federal assistance to hire more police and firefighters, spur economic development and rebuild after Superstorm Sandy.

"I am proud to have worked closely with Kellie over the years and, while I am sad to see her go, I am thrilled for this next opportunity and challenge in her stellar career. New Jerseyans should be grateful that Kellie will continue to work on their behalf at the SBA and I look forward to collaborating with her to improve the lives of our constituents."

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