Social Security provides financial protection to
more than 152 million workers and their families, and more than
45 million Americans receive monthly Social Security retirement,
disability or survivors benefits. The SSI program pays monthly
benefits to more than 6.6 million Americans who have little or
no resources and who are aged, blind or disabled.
The 65,000-person independent, federal agency is headquartered
in suburban Baltimore, with offices in Washington, D.C., and in
1,500 other locations nationwide.
Before her appointment by President Bush, Commissioner Barnhart
served for more than four years as a member of the Social Security
Advisory Board, an independent body created to advise the Congress
on Social Security issues and policies.
A former SSA employee, Ms. Barnhart worked in the Office of Family
Assistance from 1981-1986, first as Deputy Associate Commissioner
and then as Associate Commissioner. She served as minority staff
director for the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs from
1986-1990. From 1990-1993, she served as Assistant Secretary for
Children and Families at the Department of Health and Human Services,
overseeing more than 65 programs, including Aid to Families with
Dependent Children.
During her career, Ms. Barnhart has served as Senator William
V. Roth, Jr.’s legislative assistant (1977-1981) and as his campaign
manager (1988, 1994 and 2000), and managed her own political and
public policy consulting firm.
A graduate of the University of Delaware, Commissioner Barnhart
was born in Memphis, Tennessee. She lives in Virginia with her
husband and son.
Social Security Administration
Baltimore, MD 21235-000
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