William Kennard

William Kennard is an American attorney, corporate executive, and former government official who served as the 31st Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Appointed by President Bill Clinton, his tenure from 1997 to 2001 was marked by efforts to expand access to telecommunications and new technologies while navigating the competitive landscape shaped by the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Following his government service, Kennard held prominent roles in private equity, corporate boards, and diplomatic service as the United States Ambassador to the European Union.

Early life and education

Born in Los Angeles, Kennard was raised in a family with a strong commitment to public service and the Civil rights movement. He attended Stanford University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications. He subsequently pursued a legal education, graduating with a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School, an institution known for producing influential figures in American law and policy.

Legal and policy career

After law school, Kennard began his career in Washington, D.C., first serving as a law clerk for Judge Spottswood W. Robinson III of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. He then entered private practice at the law firm Verner, Liipfert, Bernhard, McPherson and Hand, focusing on communications and media law. His expertise led him to the Federal Communications Commission, where he initially served as the agency's General Counsel, providing legal counsel on complex regulatory matters involving broadcasting, spectrum policy, and common carrier regulations.

Chairmanship of the FCC

As Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Kennard championed policies aimed at bridging the digital divide and promoting competition in the wake of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. His agenda included initiatives to increase internet access in schools and libraries through the E-Rate program and to foster the deployment of broadband services. He oversaw significant proceedings on media ownership rules, local telephone service competition, and the transition to digital television. Kennard also dealt with high-profile mergers in the telecommunications industry, such as those involving AT&T Corporation and MCI Communications.

Post-FCC career

Following his term at the Federal Communications Commission, Kennard joined the private equity firm The Carlyle Group as a managing director, focusing on investments in the media and telecommunications sectors. He has served on the boards of major corporations including The New York Times Company, Sprint Corporation, and Charter Communications. In 2009, President Barack Obama appointed him as the United States Ambassador to the European Union, where he worked on transatlantic issues like data privacy, financial regulation, and trade until 2013. He remains active in corporate governance and philanthropic endeavors.

Personal life

Kennard is married to Deborah Kennedy, and the couple has two children. He maintains involvement with various educational and cultural institutions, including serving on the board of trustees for Stanford University. His personal and professional papers are part of the archives at the Library of Congress, documenting his impact on American communications policy.

Category:American lawyers Category:Federal Communications Commission officials Category:United States ambassadors to the European Union Category:Stanford University alumni Category:Yale Law School alumni