Pamela Patenaude Sworn in as Deputy Secretary of HUD

Vice President Mike Pence delivering the oath of office Pamela Hughes Patenaude with her daughter Meghan Patenaude (holding the Bible). Official White House photo: Joyce Boghosian

Pamela Hughes Patenaude has been announced as the new Deputy Secretary at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  Following her confirmation by the U.S. Senate on September 14th, Vice President Mike Pence administered the oath of office to Patenaude Tuesday evening.

In her role as Deputy Secretary, HUD's second-ranking official behind Secretary Ben Carson, Patenaude will lead the Department's Disaster Management Group and play a primary leadership and operational role in coordinating recovery efforts following the recent hurricanes, according to the release.

Patenaude will direct 16 program and support offices within HUD in order to assist state and local governments design and execute their recovery plans to rebuild damaged housing, business, and infrastructure.

Patenaude's role as Deputy Secretary will be the second time she’s served a pivotal role in the agency’s work. Under the administration of George W. Bush, she held the title of Assistant Secretary of Field Policy Management, where she oversaw the long-term goals of HUD, as well as managed relief efforts in the wake of both Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita.

“At this moment when so many of our citizens are suffering, Pam will bring strong leadership when we need her most,” said U.S. Secretary Dr. Ben Carson after Patenaude's confirmation earlier this month. “Pam’s extensive housing and community development experience will be invaluable as we embark upon the long road to recovery for communities hard-hit by disaster and I’m grateful the Senate confirmed her nomination.”