John Bryson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Bryson
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Official portrait, 2011
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| 37th United States Secretary of Commerce | |
| In office October 21, 2011 – June 21, 2012 On leave: June 11, 2012 – June 21, 2012 |
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| President | Barack Obama |
| Deputy | Rebecca Blank |
| Preceded by | Rebecca Blank (acting) |
| Succeeded by | Rebecca Blank (acting) |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
John Edgar Bryson
July 24, 1943 New York City, U.S. |
| Died | May 13, 2025 (aged 81) San Marino, California, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Education | Stanford University (BA) Yale University (JD) |
John Edgar Bryson (July 24, 1943 – May 13, 2025) was an American businessman, lawyer, and government official. He served as the United States Secretary of Commerce from 2011 to 2012. This important role helps American businesses and workers. Before that, he was a leader at Edison International, a big energy company. He also helped start the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental group.
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Early Life and Education
John Bryson was born in New York City on July 24, 1943. His father worked at a sawmill. He went to Cleveland High School in Portland, Oregon. After high school, he studied at Stanford University, earning his bachelor's degree in 1965. He then went to Yale Law School and became a lawyer in 1969.
Career Highlights
In 1970, John Bryson helped create the Natural Resources Defense Council. This group works to protect the environment. He also served in important roles for the state of California. From 1976 to 1979, he led the California State Water Resources Control Board. This board manages California's water. Then, from 1979 to 1982, he was president of the California Public Utilities Commission. This group oversees public services like electricity and gas.
In 1984, Bryson joined Edison International. This company is the parent of Southern California Edison, which provides electricity. He became its chairman, chief executive officer, and president. He retired from Edison International in 2008. He also served on the boards of other major companies, like The Boeing Company and The Walt Disney Company. He was involved with many educational and environmental groups too.
Serving as Secretary of Commerce
On May 31, 2011, President Barack Obama chose John Bryson to be the next United States Secretary of Commerce. This job involves helping American businesses grow and create jobs. After a vote in the United States Senate, Bryson was confirmed. He officially started his role on October 21, 2011. As Secretary, he worked with the White House on manufacturing policies.
Resignation from Office
In June 2012, John Bryson had some health issues. Because of this, he decided to take a leave of absence from his job. He later resigned on June 21, 2012. He explained that he wanted to prevent any distractions from the important work of the Commerce Department.
Later Life and Family
After leaving his government role, John Bryson joined the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. This center focuses on public policy. He was married to Louise Henry Bryson. They had four daughters. The family lived in San Marino, California. John Bryson passed away at his home on May 13, 2025, at the age of 81.
