Marilyn Ware facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Marilyn Ware
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Official portrait, 2006
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| United States Ambassador to Finland | |
| In office March 9, 2006 – March 28, 2008 |
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| President | George W. Bush |
| Preceded by | Earle I. Mack |
| Succeeded by | Barbara McConnell Barrett |
| Personal details | |
| Born | November 4, 1943 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Died | (aged 74) Denver, Colorado |
| Political party | Republican |
| Alma mater | American University University of Pennsylvania |
| Profession | Diplomat, Business |
Marilyn Ware was an important American diplomat and businesswoman. She served as the United States Ambassador to Finland. This means she was the main representative for the U.S. in Finland. She held this important role from 2006 to 2008. Marilyn Ware was born on November 4, 1943, and passed away on December 14, 2017, at the age of 74.
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Marilyn Ware's Early Life and Career
Marilyn Ware grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her father, John H. Ware III, was a politician. He worked in the United States House of Representatives. Marilyn went to the University of Pennsylvania. After college, she worked as a freelance journalist. She also owned a newspaper.
Leading a Water Company
From 1988 to 2003, Marilyn Ware was the chief executive officer (CEO) of American Water Works Company. This company was the largest water utility company in the United States. A water utility company provides water to homes and businesses.
During her time as CEO, the company grew a lot. Its value increased from $1.4 billion to $8.3 billion. This happened before the company was sold in 2003.
After the sale, Ware continued to work with water companies. She advised RWE, the company that bought American Water Works. She also worked with Thames Water, which was the third-largest water company in the world.
Helping with National Security
In 2002, President George W. Bush asked Marilyn Ware to join an important group. This group was called the National Critical Infrastructure Advisory Council. They helped protect important systems in the country, like water and power. She served on this council until she became an ambassador.
Supporting Clean Water and Education
Marilyn Ware spent much of her life focused on water. She was the Honorary President of WaterAid America. This charity helps provide safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene education in many countries.
She also served on several other boards. These included the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the American Enterprise Institute. She was also Vice-Chairman of the Eisenhower Fellowships Program. This program helps leaders from around the world.
Serving as Ambassador to Finland
President George W. Bush nominated Marilyn Ware to be the Ambassador to Finland in October 2005. The United States Senate confirmed her appointment in December 2005. She then served at the U.S. Embassy in Helsinki, Finland. Her term as ambassador lasted from March 2006 to March 2008.
Later Activities and Interests
Marilyn Ware cared deeply about several causes. She was a strong supporter of preserving farmland and open spaces. She also helped families affected by abuse. Early childhood education and care were also very important to her.
She helped start the Janus School. This is a private school for children with learning disabilities. She also co-founded the Lancaster Farmland Trust. This group works to protect farms in Pennsylvania.
Ware remained interested in foreign policy. In 2008, she hosted over 140 international visitors. They came to the Republican National Convention in Minnesota. This was part of the International Democrat Union, a group of political parties from around the world.
Marilyn Ware passed away on December 14, 2017, in Denver, Colorado, after an illness. She was 74 years old.
Awards and Recognition
Marilyn Ware received special honors for her work.
- In 1988, she received an honorary Doctor of Public Services degree.
- In 2004, she received an honorary Doctor of Letters degree.
She was also recognized for her political influence in Pennsylvania.
- In 2002 and 2003, she was named to "Sy Snyder's Power 50" list by PoliticsPA.
- She was also on the PoliticsPA list of "Pennsylvania's Most Politically Powerful Women."
