President Obama tapped an Atlantan to represent the U.S. at the African Union while nominating new ambassadors for 12 posts.
Michael Battle, president of the Interdenominational Theological Center, an Atlanta seminary, has been named U.S. representative to the African Union with the rank of ambassador.
The Addis Adaba, Ethiopia-based organization integrates the political interests of 53 African nations.
Mr. Battle was out of town on business and could not be reached for comment. A bio released by the White House said Mr. Battle has served as an administrator at many higher-education institutions.
He was also a military chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve for 20 years, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel.
His Africa experience includes observing South Africa’s first free elections in 1994 and serving as liaison between the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and The South African Council of Churches.
He also was vice president of the American Committee on Africa from 1994-1998.
Mr. Obama also nominated ambassadors to Argentina, Brazil, Denmark, France, Iceland, India, Japan, Kosovo, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, United Kingdom and the Vatican.
The Senate must confirm all nominees.
The Pendleton Group is the presenting sponsor of Global Atlanta's Economic Development Channel. Subscribe here for monthly Economic Development newsletters.
