Every year TIME assesses global artists, innovators, titans, leaders, icons, and pioneers to create its TIME100 list of the 100 most influential people. I am honored to know personally and have met some amazing individuals featured on this list, including artist El Anatsui, President Joe Biden, and Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.
As an admirer of art and advocate for its infusion into how we develop our communities, I have always been fascinated by its connection to culture, history, and its ability to evoke strong emotion. El Anatsui has been called one of the most impactful artists of our time, and I am glad to have one of his pieces in the Clark collection. Anatsui collects diverse materials and demonstrates his ability to experiment with various processes and elements to create transformative sculptural forms.
Positively impacting communities is always the goal, whether it's through the “Art and Science of Building” at Clayco, the work of global artists that incite and reflect societal changes, or the politics that shape the global stage. It doesn’t matter how it gets done - as long as it does. It is inspiring to reflect on the various people who have influenced the world and my own in endless ways.
President Biden’s TIME100 feature notes that he likes to say that it’s never a good idea to bet against the American people.” However, Ron Klain, his White House chief of staff, argues, “It is never a good bet to bet against Joe Biden” – and I couldn’t agree more.
As a true champion of the people, President Biden has contributed to many great changes throughout his presidency. He ushered the first Black woman onto the Supreme Court, passed the first gun-control law in a generation, and demonstrated to the world America’s position as an ally to our friends in Ukraine. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
President Biden and Secretary Raimondo have consistently worked to improve our country and communities, from the CHIPS and Science Act that authorized $200 billion to increase America’s competitive efforts and improve shortages and beyond.
Secretary Raimondo’s dedication and efforts have helped secure our nation’s prosperity and security, grow well-paying jobs, and propel us toward a sustainable future. Formerly the 75th Governor of Rhode Island and its first woman governor, Secretary Raimondo has shown up for the American people as an impactful leader throughout her career. Seeing her on this list is very well deserved.
Congratulations to everyone featured on the TIME100, and thank you for your dedicated mission to positively shape our communities, culture, and world.
Read more here.
