“Kay has always been known for tireless advocacy on behalf of Texans and her ability to work across the aisle to get things done,” said Texas U.S. Sen. John Cornyn in a statement. “She has the experience, determination, and poise to strengthen our relationships on the world stage, and I’m confident she’ll make Texas—and our country—proud.”

Hutchison represented Texas in the Senate from 1993-2013. According to Politico, former United Nations official Richard Grenell was an early frontrunner for the NATO ambassador position, but fellow Longhorn and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, BS ’75, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, “was said to prefer Hutchison for the role.”

Creative Commons photo via NASA HQ on Flickr.