Nicole Avant facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Nicole Avant
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| United States Ambassador to The Bahamas | |
| In office October 22, 2009 – November 21, 2011 |
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| President | Barack Obama |
| Preceded by | Ned Siegel |
| Succeeded by | John W. Dinkelman (chargé d'affaires) |
| Personal details | |
| Born | March 6, 1968 Los Angeles County, California, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse |
Ted Sarandos
(m. 2009) |
| Relatives | Clarence Avant (father) |
| Education | California State University, Northridge (BA) |
Nicole A. Avant (born March 6, 1968) is an American producer and political activist. She served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas from 2009 to 2011.
Contents
About Nicole Avant
Early Life and Education
Nicole Avant was born on March 6, 1968. Her parents are Clarence Avant and Jacqueline Avant. Her father, Clarence, was a very important person in the music world. He was even called "The Black Godfather" and led Motown Records.
Nicole was born on her mother's 28th birthday. Growing up, famous people like former President Jimmy Carter often visited her family's home in Hollywood. This gave her an early look into the world of politics.
Nicole finished high school at Beverly Hills High School in 1986. She then went to California State University, Northridge. In 1990, she earned a degree in communications.
Starting Her Career
Nicole Avant began her career in the music industry. She worked in the promotion department at A&M Records in Los Angeles. By 1988, she became a vice president at Interior Music Publishing. This was her father's music company.
Later, Nicole became involved in politics. In 2006, she helped create the Culture Cabinet. She also organized events to raise money for political campaigns. She was a key person in Southern California for the Barack Obama 2008 presidential campaign.
Serving as U.S. Ambassador
President Barack Obama chose Nicole Avant to be the United States Ambassador to the Bahamas. She was appointed on June 16, 2009. She officially started her role on October 22, 2009.
Nicole Avant served as Ambassador until November 21, 2011. At 41 years old, she made history. She was the first black woman and the youngest U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas ever. During her time, she was even nominated for an award for excellent diplomatic service.
While in the Bahamas, Ambassador Avant worked to help people with disabilities. She invited Eunice Shriver and Francesca Shriver to visit. They helped bring attention to the Special Olympics-Bahamas. She also brought basketball legend Magic Johnson to speak about trade.
A report from the State Department praised her leadership. It noted that the embassy worked well together. The report also said that she and her team improved the embassy's reputation. This helped create a strong relationship between the U.S. and the Bahamas.
Nicole Avant resigned from her role in November 2011. She then helped with Barack Obama's 2012 re-election campaign. This included helping to raise money.
Life After Politics
After her time as Ambassador, Nicole Avant continued to be active. In 2019, she produced a documentary film. It was called The Black Godfather. The film was about her father, Clarence Avant. Her husband, Ted Sarandos, is a leader at Netflix, which showed the film.
In 2021, Nicole Avant became an early investor in a company called Thirteen Lune. This company sells makeup, skincare, and other products. It focuses on brands owned by people of color.
On April 28, 2023, a special center opened. It was named The Jacqueline Avant Children and Family Center. This center helps children who are at risk. It was named in honor of her mother, who was a philanthropist. In October 2023, Nicole Avant also released her own book. It is a memoir called “Think You’ll Be Happy: Moving Through Grief With Grit, Grace, and Gratitude.”
Awards and Recognition
- 2012: International Award at the 20th Annual Trumpet Awards.
Personal Life
Nicole Avant is married to Ted Sarandos. He is the co-chief executive officer of Netflix.
