[Senate Hearing 117-439]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]


                                                        S. Hrg. 117-439

                           NOMINATION TO THE
                  UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

=======================================================================

                                HEARING

                               BEFORE THE

                         COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE,
                      SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
                          UNITED STATES SENATE

                    ONE HUNDRED SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS

                             SECOND SESSION
                               __________

                             JULY 14, 2022
                               __________

    Printed for the use of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
                             Transportation
                             
                             
                  [GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]                             


                Available online: http://www.govinfo.gov
                               __________

                    U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE
                    
55-622 PDF                 WASHINGTON : 2024                   
                

       SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION

                    ONE HUNDRED SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS

                             SECOND SESSION

                   MARIA CANTWELL, Washington, Chair
AMY KLOBUCHAR, Minnesota             ROGER WICKER, Mississippi, Ranking
RICHARD BLUMENTHAL, Connecticut      JOHN THUNE, South Dakota
BRIAN SCHATZ, Hawaii                 ROY BLUNT, Missouri
EDWARD MARKEY, Massachusetts         TED CRUZ, Texas
GARY PETERS, Michigan                DEB FISCHER, Nebraska
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin             JERRY MORAN, Kansas
TAMMY DUCKWORTH, Illinois            DAN SULLIVAN, Alaska
JON TESTER, Montana                  MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
KYRSTEN SINEMA, Arizona              TODD YOUNG, Indiana
JACKY ROSEN, Nevada                  MIKE LEE, Utah
BEN RAY LUJAN, New Mexico            RON JOHNSON, Wisconsin
JOHN HICKENLOOPER, Colorado          SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West 
RAPHAEL WARNOCK, Georgia                 Virginia
                                     RICK SCOTT, Florida
                                     CYNTHIA LUMMIS, Wyoming
                       Lila Helms, Staff Director
                 Melissa Porter, Deputy Staff Director
       George Greenwell, Policy Coordinator and Security Manager
                 John Keast, Republican Staff Director
            Crystal Tully, Republican Deputy Staff Director
                      Steven Wall, General Counsel

                            C O N T E N T S

                              ----------                              
                                                                   Page
Hearing held on July 14, 2022....................................     1
Statement of Senator Klobuchar...................................     1
Statement of Senator Wicker......................................     3
    Letter dated July 14, 2022 to Hon. Maria Cantwell and Hon. 
      Roger Wicker from Rick C. Wade, Senior Vice 
      PresidentStrategic Alliances and Outreach, U.S. Chamber of 
      Commerce...................................................     3
Statement of Senator Schatz......................................    34
Statement of Senator Blunt.......................................    34
Statement of Senator Tester......................................    35
Statement of Senator Blumenthal..................................    37
Statement of Senator Hickenlooper................................    39
Statement of Senator Baldwin.....................................    40

                               Witnesses

Susie Feliz, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce for 
  Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, U.S. Department of 
  Commerce.......................................................     4
    Prepared statement...........................................     6
    Biographical information.....................................     7
Donald R. Cravins, Jr., Nominee to be Under Secretary of Commerce 
  for Minority Business Development, U.S. Department of Commerce.    15
    Prepared statement...........................................    16
    Biographical information.....................................    17

                                Appendix

Letter of support Susie Feliz dated June 8, 2022 to Hon. Maria 
  Cantwell and Hon. Roger Wicker from Raul Ruiz, M.D., Chair, 
  Congressional Hispanic Caucus..................................    43
Letter of support for Susie Feliz dated June 14, 2022 to Hon. 
  Maria Cantwell and Hon. Roger Wicker from Ramiro A. Cavazos, 
  President and CEO, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce...........    45
Letter of support for Susie Feliz dated June 21, 2022 to Hon. 
  Maria Cantwell and Hon. Roger Wicker from Janet Murgu!a, 
  President and CEO, UnidosUS; Domingo Garcia, President, LULAC; 
  Arturo Vargas, Chief Executive Officer, NALEO Educational Fund; 
  Hector Sanchez Barba, Executive Director and CEO, Mi Familia 
  Vota; Thomas A. Saenz, President and General Counsel, MALDEF; 
  Ramiro A. Cavazos, President and CEO, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of 
  Commerce; Nathalie Rayes, President and CEO, Latino Victory 
  Fund; Mark Magana, President and CEO, GreenLatinos; Frankie 
  Miranda, President and CEO, Hispanic Federation................    47
Response to written questions submitted to Susie Feliz by:
    Hon. Kyrsten Sinema..........................................    49
    Hon. Jacky Rosen.............................................    49
    Hon. Roger Wicker............................................    50
Response to written questions submitted to Donald R. Cravins, Jr. 
  by:
    Hon. Tammy Duckworth.........................................    51
    Hon. Jacky Rosen.............................................    52
    Hon. Kyrsten Sinema..........................................    53
    Hon. Ray Ben Lujan...........................................    54
    Hon. Raphael Warnock.........................................    54
    Hon. Roger Wicker............................................    55
    Hon. Marsha Blackburn........................................    55

 
                           NOMINATION TO THE
                  UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

                              ----------                              


                        THURSDAY, JULY 14, 2022

                                       U.S. Senate,
        Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
                                                    Washington, DC.
    The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 10:01 a.m., in 
room SR-253, Russell Senate Office Building, Hon. Amy 
Klobuchar, presiding.
    Present: Senators Klobuchar [presiding], Blumenthal, 
Schatz, Baldwin, Tester, Hickenlooper, Wicker, and Blunt.

           OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. AMY KLOBUCHAR, 
                  U.S. SENATOR FROM MINNESOTA

    Senator Klobuchar. All right. I am calling the hearing to 
order. We are very excited today to consider two important 
nominations for the Department of Commerce. We welcome our 
nominees and their families, and we thank both of you for your 
willingness to serve.
    First, I would like to welcome Susie Feliz to be Assistant 
Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at the 
Department of Commerce. She is joined by her husband, Jose. He 
is very well behaved. Back there, he is not doing anything. You 
know, it will distract us. Ms. Feliz comes from a proud 
military family with a long history of veterans who faithfully 
served our Nation.
    Her career in public service spans more than 20 years and 
includes positions in both the Senate and the House of 
Representatives. She has dedicated much of her life to working 
with all levels of local, State, and Federal Governments, as 
well as constituents and businesses to improve underrepresented 
and minority communities. She currently serves as the Vice 
President for Policy and Legislative Affairs at the National 
Urban League.
    Ms. Feliz brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge in 
shaping public policy and has a strong track record of working 
with people on both sides of the aisle. And I look forward to 
working with you to ensure that this committee's priorities are 
communicated to the Department and that together we can achieve 
our shared goals.
    I also wanted to mention Chairwoman Cantwell's strong 
support of both of the nominees. She just lost her mom. Senator 
Wicker and I were just talking about this on Monday. And so she 
is still in town working really hard on the USICA semiconductor 
bill but has a lot going on. And she is very excited about both 
nominees. I saw her last night and wanted to convey that.
    Second, Mr. Don Cravins has been nominated to be 
Undersecretary of Commerce for minority business development at 
the Department of Commerce as well. We welcome you in this 
incredible new position, and we are excited about the work you 
can do. We talked about this yesterday. And you are joined by 
your wife, Yvette, and two of your children, Dominique and 
Chloe. So we thank you for being here as well.
    This position was established when we passed the Minority 
Business Development Act as part of the bipartisan 
infrastructure law, which was signed into law in November. A 
number of people on this committee worked really hard on that 
bill and we thank them for their leadership. If confirmed, Mr. 
Cravins would be the first Senate confirmed person to occupy 
this important position leading the Minority Business 
Development Agency.
    The MBDA is the only Federal agency solely dedicated to the 
growth and global competitiveness of our nation's 9.2 million 
minority owned businesses. The agency's nationwide network of 
local MBDA centers assist minority owned businesses in gaining 
access to capital, finding the right markets, and landing 
contracts and technical assistance that help companies grow and 
compete.
    I am proud to say that 1 of the 39 MBDA centers is located 
in my state in Minneapolis. I can't think of anyone better 
suited to lead the agency than Mr. Cravins. He has long been 
committed to public service, business development, and equity. 
He previously served as an elected official in his home state 
of Louisiana, first in the State's House of Representatives, 
then in the Louisiana State Senate.
    And in January 2009, he left the Louisiana Legislature to 
serve as Staff Director and Chief Counsel for the Senate 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship under then 
chair and our friend Mary Landrieu, former Senator from 
Louisiana. So that is a pretty good recommendation for all of 
us in the Senate. In January 2013, he became Mary's Chief of 
Staff.
    Senator Landrieu, I know strongly supports your nomination 
and is a huge fan of your work. Currently, Mr. Cravins serves 
as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at 
the National Urban League, which operates 13 entrepreneurship 
centers across America, focused on the development of minority 
owned businesses.
    I am so excited, Don, to see you at the helm of this 
incredible agency as it embarks on a new chapter, embraces new 
responsibilities. And I know Senator Wicker has also been 
incredibly helpful on this front when it comes to the important 
work with entrepreneurs, minority entrepreneurs across the 
country.
    So it is also fitting that we are chairing this hearing 
together. Again, I would like to thank both of you for your 
willingness to serve. I now turn to Ranking Member Wicker, also 
from the South, Mr. Cravins, for his opening statement.

                STATEMENT OF HON. ROGER WICKER, 
                 U.S. SENATOR FROM MISSISSIPPI

    Senator Wicker. Right across the river. Thank you, Senator 
Klobuchar. And thanks to Senator Cantwell for calling this 
hearing because of the nominations of Mr. Donald Cravins to be 
Undersecretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development, 
and Ms. Susie Feliz to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce for 
Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs. These are important 
positions within the Department, and they warrant the 
Committee's focus this morning.
    This is the first time a nominee has come before the Senate 
to fill the role of the recently created position of 
Undersecretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development. 
Last year, I actually sponsored legislation that codified the 
Minority Business Development Agency and elevated its top 
leader to the position of undersecretary. So this is a matter 
of importance to me.
    This agency does critical work to support minority 
businesses, business owners across the Nation, including in my 
home State of Mississippi. I attended a banquet of the United 
Negro College Fund some years back in Tupelo, Mississippi. My 
fellow Mississippian, the late Charles Evers spoke at that 
banquet, which was held at the Ramada Inn in Tupelo.
    He said to the group of young people there, ``I don't want 
you just to get a job at the Ramada Inn. I want you to own the 
Ramada Inn.'' And that belief is now going to be carried on by 
this MBDA. And I think it is good to have a Senate confirmed 
official leading this agency to make sure there is sufficient 
Congressional oversight.
    I am encouraged by Mr. Cravins' qualifications, including 
his service as Staff Director of the Senate Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship committee. And I look forward to hearing from 
him today about his strategic plans for the MBDA. I appreciate 
that has listed as one of his priorities to expand the 
geographic reach of the agency.
    I have in my hand, Madam Chair, a letter dated July 14, 
2022, recommending highly Mr. Donald Cravins for confirmation. 
It is signed by Rick C. Wade, Senior Vice President, Strategic 
Alliances and Outreach, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. And I ask 
unanimous consent that it be admitted at this point.
    Senator Klobuchar. It will be.
    [The information referred to follows:]

                                   U.S. Chamber of Commerce
                                      Washington, DC, July 14, 2022

Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Chair,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Roger Wicker,
Ranking Member,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.

Dear Chair Cantwell and Ranking Member Wicker:

    The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the nomination of Mr. Donald 
Cravins, Jr. to be the first Under Secretary for the Minority Business 
Development Agency (MBDA) at the U.S. Department of Commerce, the only 
Federal agency of its kind focused on promoting the growth and 
competitiveness of minority-owned businesses.
    Mr. Cravins has a solid and diverse background in public and 
private sector leadership, which will serve him well in this role. He 
also has a strong track record of dedicated service and engagement with 
the business community. He previously served as Executive Vice 
President and Chief Operating Officer at the National Urban League and 
as Staff Director and Chief Counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on 
Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
    We believe Mr. Cravins would be a great ally in our collective 
efforts to strengthen business in America and build an inclusive 
economy. We urge the Committee to expeditiously advance his nomination 
to the full Senate, and appreciate your time and consideration.
            Sincerely,
                                              Rick C. Wade,
                                             Senior Vice President,
                                  Strategic Alliances and Outreach,
                                              U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

    Senator Wicker. And I know Mr. Cravins will see this area 
as an area of untapped potential, particularly our rural areas. 
Now, moving along, the Department of Commerce has vast range of 
policy areas and programs in its jurisdiction.
    And the Assistant Secretary for Legislative and 
Intergovernmental Affairs provides a key link between the 
Department and Congress regarding this entire portfolio. I look 
forward to hearing from Ms. Feliz about the experience she 
would bring to this Assistant Secretary position and her goals 
for this vital role, if confirmed.
    So thank you very much, Senator Klobuchar, and look forward 
to the hearing.
    Senator Klobuchar. Thank you very much, Senator Wicker. I 
think we will start with you, Ms. Feliz. And thank you both of 
you. Look forward to hearing from you, and then we will have 
questions from the Committee. Go ahead. We have some members on 
remote as well. Thank you.

                   STATEMENT OF SUSIE FELIZ,

 NOMINEE TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF COMMERCE FOR LEGISLATIVE 
                 AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS

                  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

    Ms. Feliz. Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Wicker, and 
members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to 
appear before you today as a nominee for Assistant Secretary of 
Commerce for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs. I am 
honored to be President Biden's nominee, and I am grateful to 
Secretary Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Graves for their trust 
in me to fulfill the duties of this position.
    I want to thank my husband, retired Navy Captain Jose 
Feliz, who is in the audience today, for his unconditional love 
and support, for being a wonderful father to our two young 
sons, Giovanni and Lucas, and for the privilege of being a 
stepmother to his two older children, Genesis and Daniel.
    I am here because of the love and sacrifice of my parents 
who left their homes in Ecuador in search of a better life for 
themselves and their families here in the United States. 
Together, they raised three children, including my sister Anna 
Louisa, who works in the private sector, and my brother Josh, 
who is a captain in the U.S. Army.
    My parents chose careers in public service to give back to 
a country that gave them so much and to provide for their 
families. My father retired after 27 years of service in the 
Army as a combat engineer. He fought in both wars in Iraq and 
Afghanistan in defense of our Nation and was a recipient of the 
Purple Heart for his service in Iraq.
    My mother retired as a special education teacher's 
assistant at Albritton Middle School in Fort Bragg, North 
Carolina. They both instilled in me the core values of duty, 
integrity, and selfless service, which I will bring to the 
Department of Commerce, if confirmed. As a military child, I 
lived and attended schools in six different States, which 
exposed me to the cultural differences we have across our 
country.
    I learned to love and appreciate the diversity of our 
Nation, but also saw firsthand the economic hardships faced by 
so many, particularly in historically underserved communities. 
This experience fueled my passion for advancing inclusive 
economic growth and opportunity throughout my career on Capitol 
Hill.
    If confirmed, I am excited to continue my purpose in 
service to the Nation at the Department of Commerce. I believe 
my experience on Capitol Hill has prepared me to carry out the 
role of Assistant Secretary for Legislative and 
Intergovernmental Affairs. During the last two decades, I have 
served as an aide to former Senator Clinton, a Legislative 
Director to Representatives Joe Baca, Al Green, and Karen Bass, 
and as the Vice President of Policy and Legislative Affairs for 
the National Urban League.
    I am grateful to my former bosses for the opportunities 
they gave me and the legislative training I received, which 
will serve the needs of Congress at the Department of Commerce, 
as well as the needs of State, local, and tribal governments.
    If confirmed, I will bring an in-depth understanding of the 
legislative process, a track record of working in a bipartisan 
fashion with Congress and the Administration to ensure policies 
are implemented faithfully, and experience leading legislative 
teams.
    Finally, I have worked on several legislative priorities 
that are essential to the economic mission at the Department of 
Commerce, including minority business development, digital 
equity, economic development, and the decennial census. The 
Department has several mandates that I look forward to working 
with you to implement if I am confirmed.
    Not the least of these mandates is employing historic new 
public investments to ensure all Americans have access to 
affordable broadband, workers have access to job training and 
wraparound services that create pathways to quality jobs, and 
women and minority owned small businesses have the tools they 
need to grow and thrive.
    In addition, the Department's strategic goal of driving 
U.S. innovation and global competitiveness is central to 
revitalizing domestic production and increasing the resiliency 
and diversity of supply chains.
    And its authority to facilitate trade abroad and issue 
trade restrictions and economic sanctions on countries that 
threaten U.S. national security and foreign policy interests 
has never been more vital.
    As a former Congressional staffer, I recognize the 
constitutional responsibility of Congress to create laws and 
execute oversight authority. My experience has helped me 
understand how important it is for Congress and the Executive 
Branch to work closely together to ensure the faithful 
implementation of these laws.
    If confirmed, I commit to work with my team and all leaders 
within the Department of Commerce to respond in a timely and 
appropriate manner to requests from Congress, Governors, 
Mayors, and tribal governments, and to ensure the Department is 
working toward meeting statutory deadlines.
    It is humbling to have been nominated to a role so critical 
to implementing policies and programs which are aiding in our 
Nation's economic recovery, as well as to protecting our 
economic standing in the world.
    If confirmed, I look forward to serving as your direct line 
of communication to the U.S. Department of Commerce. Thank you 
again for inviting me to testify today, and I look forward to 
your questions.
    [The prepared statement and biographical information of Ms. 
Feliz follows:]

  Prepared Statement of Susie Feliz, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary
       of Commerce for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs,
                      U.S. Department of Commerce
    Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Wicker, and Members of the 
Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today as 
the nominee for Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Legislative and 
Intergovernmental Affairs. I am honored to be President Biden's nominee 
and am grateful to Secretary Raimondo and Deputy Secretary Graves for 
their trust in me to fulfill the duties of this position.
    I want to thank my husband, retired Navy Captain Jose Feliz, who is 
in the audience today, for his unconditional love and support, for 
being a wonderful father to our two young sons, Giovanni and Lucas, and 
for the privilege of being a stepmother to his two older children, 
Genesis and Daniel.
    I am here because of the love and sacrifice of my parents who left 
their homes in Ecuador in search of a better life for themselves and 
their families here in the United States. Together they raised three 
children, including my sister Analuisa who works in the private sector, 
and my brother Josh who is a Captain in the U.S. Army. My parents chose 
careers in public service to give back to a country that gave them so 
much and to provide for their families. My father retired after 27 
years of service in the Army as a combat engineer. He fought in both 
wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in defense of our Nation and was a 
recipient of the Purple Heart for his service in Iraq. My mother 
retired as a special-education teacher's assistant at Albritton Middle 
School in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. They both instilled in me the 
core values of duty, integrity, and selfless service which I will bring 
to the Department of Commerce, if confirmed.
    As a military child, I lived and attended schools in six different 
states, which exposed me to the cultural differences we have across our 
country. I learned to love and appreciate the diversity of our Nation 
but also saw firsthand the economic hardships faced by so many, 
particularly in historically underserved communities. This experience 
fueled my passion for advancing inclusive economic growth and 
opportunity throughout my career on Capitol Hill, which, if confirmed, 
I am excited to continue at the Department of Commerce.
    I believe my experience on Capitol Hill has prepared me to carry 
out the role of Assistant Secretary for Legislative and 
Intergovernmental Affairs. During the last two decades, I have served 
as an aide to former Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton; a legislative 
director to Representatives Joe Baca (CA-43), Al Green (TX-09), and 
Karen Bass (CA-37); and as the Vice President of Policy and Legislative 
Affairs for the National Urban League. I am grateful to my former 
bosses for the opportunities they gave me and the legislative training 
I received which will serve the needs of Congress at the Department of 
Commerce, as well as the needs of state, local and tribal governments. 
If confirmed, I will bring an in-depth understanding of the legislative 
process, a track record of working in a bipartisan way with Congress 
and the Administration to ensure polices are implemented faithfully, 
and experience leading legislative teams. Finally, I have worked on 
several legislative priorities that are central to the economic mission 
of the Department of Commerce--including minority business development, 
digital equity, economic development, and the decennial census.
    The Department has several mandates that I look forward to working 
with you to implement, if I am confirmed. Not the least of these 
mandates is employing historic new public investments to ensure all 
Americans have access to affordable broadband, workers have access to 
job training and wrap-around services that create pathways to quality 
jobs, and women-and minority-owned small businesses have the tools they 
need to grow and thrive. In addition, the Department's strategic goal 
of driving U.S. innovation and global competitiveness is central to 
revitalizing domestic production and increasing the resiliency and 
diversity of supply chains. And its authority to facilitate trade 
abroad and issue trade restrictions and economic sanctions on countries 
that threaten U.S. national security and foreign policy interests has 
never been more vital.
    As a former congressional staffer, I recognize the constitutional 
responsibility of Congress to create laws and execute oversight 
authority. My experience has helped me understand how important it is 
for Congress and the Executive Branch to work closely together to 
ensure the faithful implementation of these laws. If confirmed, I 
commit to work with my team, and all leaders within the Department of 
Commerce, to respond in a timely and appropriate manner to requests 
from Congress, governors, mayors, and tribal governments; and to ensure 
the Department is working towards meeting statutory deadlines.
    It is humbling to have been nominated to a role so critical to 
implementing policies and programs which are aiding in our Nation's 
economic recovery as well as protecting our economic standing in the 
world. If confirmed, I look forward to serving as your direct line of 
communication to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
    Thank you, again, for inviting me to testify today. I look forward 
to your questions.
                                 ______
                                 
                      a. biographical information
    1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used):

        Susie Feliz, formerly Susie Saavedra. Birth name is Susie 
        Jerez.

    2. Position to which nominated: Assistant Secretary for Legislative 
and Intergovernmental Affairs, U.S. Department of Commerce.
    3. Date of Nomination: March 15, 2022.
    4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):

        Residence: Information not released to the public.
        Office: 1805 7th St, NW, Washington, DC 20001.

    5. Date and Place of Birth: September 1, 1978; Elmhurst, Queens, 
New York.
    6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your 
spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including 
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).

   Spouse: Jose Feliz, Specialist Leader, Deloitte

   Stepdaughter: Genesis Feliz Jones, Associate Veterinarian, 
        THRIVE Affordable Vet-Care, 28 years old

   Stepson: Daniel Feliz, unemployed, 21 years old

    7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school 
attended.

   Cornell University Diversity and Inclusion Certificate, 2022

   George Washington University, Master of Public 
        Administration, 2002

   The University of Denver, Bachelor of Arts, 2000

    8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all 
management level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to 
the position for which you are nominated.
National Urban League, 8/2013 to present
   Vice President, Policy and Legislative Affairs, 4/2018-
        present

   Senior Director, Policy and Legislative Affairs, 4/2016-3/
        2018

   Senior Director, Education and Health Policy, 8/2013-3/2016
U.S. House of Representatives, 9/2005-6/2013
   Representative Karen Bass (CA-37), Senior Advisor/
        Legislative Director, 1/2013-6/2013

   Representative Al Green (TX-09), Legislative Director, 2/
        2009-12/2011

   Representative Joe Baca (CA-43), Legislative Director, 1/
        2006-2/2009, Senior Legislative Assistant, 9/2005-1/2006
U.S. Senate, 8/2002-9/2005
   Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY), Legislative Aide, 1/
        2004-9/2005, Legislative Correspondent, 8/2002-12/2003
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Intern, 6/
        2001-5/2002
   Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 
        (SAMHSA), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
National Association for Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) 
        Congressional Fellow, 6/2000-8/2000
   House Democratic Leader Richard Gephardt

    9. Attach a copy of your resume.
    See attached
    10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time 
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other 
than those listed above, within the last ten years. None.
    11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee, 
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any 
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise, 
educational, or other institution within the last ten years.

   Keystone Policy Center, Board of Trustees (2018 to present)

   Hispanic Lobbyists Association, At-Large Board Member 
        (Present), Vice President (2017)

   GW Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public 
        Administration, Advisory Board Member (2018-2021)

    12. Please list each membership you have had during the past ten 
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, 
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or 
religiously affiliated organization, private club, or other membership 
organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your 
religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or 
institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have 
held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or 
organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color, 
religion, national origin, age, or disability.
    Army Navy Country Club, 2018 to present
    13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office 
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any 
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are 
personally liable for that debt. No.
    14. List all memberships and offices held with and services 
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or 
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid 
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether 
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years, 
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year 
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities.

        Obama for America, Virginia Latino Vote Fellow, 2012
        Managed paid canvass team to register, educate and turnout 
        Latino voters in support of President Obama's successful 2012 
        reelection. Managed a get-out-the-vote field program involving 
        110 Spanish-speaking volunteers in 23 high-density Latino 
        precincts in Northern Virginia.

        Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Field Director for 
        Pete Aguilar CA-31 Campaign, 2012
        Recruited, trained, and managed volunteers & staff in the Pete 
        Aguilar for Congress campaign in California's new 31st 
        congressional district.

    15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign 
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar 
entity of $200 or more for the past ten years.
    Not applicable.
    16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary 
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition 
for outstanding service or achievements.

   Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society

   The Hill Top (Grassroots) Lobbyist List: 2021, 2020, 2019

    17. Please list each book, article, column, Internet blog posting, 
or other publication you have authored, individually or with others. 
Include a link to each publication when possible. Also list any 
speeches that you have given on topics relevant to the position for 
which you have been nominated. Do not attach copies of these 
publications unless otherwise instructed.
    Not applicable.
    18. List all digital platforms (including social media and other 
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated 
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your 
name or an alias. Include the name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'' you 
have used on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account 
is active, deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if 
possible.

   Active: Twitter: @SusieSDC

   Active: Instagram: @susiedsaavedra

   Active: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Susie.saavedra.10

   Active: LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/susiefeliz

    19. Please identify each instance in which you have testified 
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each 
testimony.
    Not applicable.
    20. Given the current mission, major programs, and major 
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been 
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you 
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for 
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that 
position?
    I have two decades of experience working on Capitol Hill as an aide 
to Senator Clinton, a legislative director to Representatives Joe Baca 
(CA-43), Al Green (TX-09), and Karen Bass (CA-37), and subsequently as 
the Vice President of Policy and Legislative Affairs for the National 
Urban League. As a result, I bring an in-depth understanding of how 
public policy is formulated, an extensive network across all levels of 
government, the private sector, trade associations, and civil society, 
and a track record of creating and then shepherding policy through its 
congressional life cycle. I have also led diverse, legislative teams 
for over 15 years. Finally, I bring a strong understanding of many 
programs being implemented at the Commerce Department including those 
related to broadband access, small business development, and skills 
training given my experience managing these issues as a congressional 
staffer and with the National Urban League. I am prepared to carry out 
the role of Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental 
Affairs at the Department of Commerce and am excited for the chance to 
advance job creation, economic growth, and opportunity for all in our 
Nation.
    21. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to 
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting 
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large 
organization?
    If confirmed, my main responsibility will be to work with the 
Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Commerce as well as all leaders 
within the Department of Commerce to respond to Congressional inquiries 
in a timely manner. I would also be responsible for managing a team of 
legislative and intergovernmental professionals who work with 
Congressional and intergovernmental stakeholders every day.
    I have two decades of experience working on Capitol Hill as an aide 
to Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, a legislative director to 
Representatives Joe Baca (CA-43), Al Green (TX-09), and Karen Bass (CA-
37), and in nonprofit advocacy as the Vice President of Policy and 
Legislative Affairs for the National Urban League. This experience has 
provided me with a strong understanding of the legislative process and 
the roles of Congress and the Executive Branch in public policymaking.
    22. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the 
department/agency, and why?
    The first challenge facing the Department of Commerce is related to 
its strategic goal of driving U.S. innovation and global 
competitiveness. The Department will continue to be on the front lines 
of defense against foreign competitors and adversaries that engage in 
harmful and illegal trade practices, steal intellectual property, and 
permit cyber-attacks.
    And the Department will continue to exert its authority to 
facilitate trade abroad and issue trade restrictions and economic 
sanctions on countries that threaten U.S. national security and foreign 
policy interests. Finally, the Department will continue to play a 
significant role in revitalizing domestic production and increasing the 
resiliency and diversity of supply chains through investments in 
American manufacturing, technological innovation, research, and 
development.
    The second challenge facing the Department of Commerce is related 
to its strategic goal of fostering capitalism and growth to ensure all 
Americans participate in the 21st century economy. This will include 
employing historic public investments to ensure all Americans have 
access to affordable broadband, workers have access to job training and 
wrap around services that create pathway to quality jobs and women and 
minority owned small businesses have the tools they need to grow and 
thrive. The Department will also continue to employ place-based 
investments to help underserved communities disproportionately impacted 
by the COVID-19 pandemic get on the road to recovery and build long-
term economic competitiveness.
    The third challenge facing the Department of Commerce is related to 
its strategic goal of providing 21st century service with 21st century 
capabilities. This will include effectively implementing new Department 
of Commerce authorities and investments, optimizing the workforce, and 
delivering exceptional customer service.
                   b. potential conflicts of interest
    1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation 
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates, 
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement 
accounts.

   National Urban League defined contribution plan. The plan 
        sponsor will not continue to make further contributions after 
        my separation.

   National Urban League defined benefit plan. I will continue 
        to participate in this defined benefit plan.

   National Urban League bonus. Pursuant to my employment 
        agreement, I recently received a performance-based bonus at the 
        end of Q1 2022 for services rendered in 2021. This bonus is 
        $11,200, worth 7 percent of my salary, and was paid on 4/13/22. 
        I have reported this in the appropriate section below.

    2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal, 
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business, 
association or other organization during your appointment? If so, 
please explain. No.
    3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other 
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in 
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will 
resolve each potential conflict of interest.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflict of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered into 
with the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and 
that will be provided to this Committee. In the event that an actual or 
potential conflict of interest arises during my appointment, I will 
consult with the Commerce Department's ethics counsel and take the 
measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial 
transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for 
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in 
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the 
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve 
each potential conflict of interest.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflict of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered into 
with the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and 
that will be provided to this Committee. In the event that an actual or 
potential conflict of interest arises during my appointment, I will 
consult with the Commerce Department's ethics counsel and take the 
measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain 
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflict of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered into 
with the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and 
that will be provided to this Committee. In the event that an actual or 
potential conflict of interest arises during my appointment, I will 
consult with the Commerce Department's ethics counsel and take the 
measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the 
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the 
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or 
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and 
execution of law or public policy. None.
                            c. legal matters
    1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics, 
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a 
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special 
Counsel, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other 
professional group? No.
    2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by 
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal, 
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic 
offense? If so, please explain. No.
    3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were 
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency 
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please 
explain. No.
    4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo 
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic 
offense? If so, please explain. No.
    5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual 
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or 
any other basis? If so, please explain. No.
    6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information, 
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in 
connection with your nomination. None.
                     d. relationship with committee
    1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with 
deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that 
your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for 
information from individual Members of Congress, including requests 
from members in the minority? Yes.
    2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can 
to protect congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal 
for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
    3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested 
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with 
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
    4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly 
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be 
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
                                 ______
                                 
                      Supplement to Questionnaire
                                                       May 18, 2022

Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Chair,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.

Hon. Roger Wicker,
Ranking Member,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.

Dear Chair Cantwell and Ranking Member Wicker:

    I write to supplement the committee questionnaire that I submitted 
to the Committee on April 25, 2022 in connection with my nomination. 
Below are corrected or supplemental responses to certain questions in 
that questionnaire.

B. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

    6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the 
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the 
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or 
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and 
execution of law or public policy.
    After discussing with the Committee the type of activity that this 
question was intended to capture, I am able to provide information on 
the following activities, most of which are covered in my resume which 
I previously submitted to the Committee.
    During my tenure with the National Urban League, I led the Urban 
League's policy team in drafting policy priorities and developing 
advocacy strategies to advance the Urban League's mission in education, 
housing, health care, broadband access, small business development, and 
job training.
    I also helped to secure over six opportunities for the National 
Urban League leadership to testify before Congress to promote the 
organization's priorities around digital equity and inclusion, 
workforce training, small business development, and education equity.
    I helped to influence the modification of the following proposals 
which are related to the Commerce Department's mission and have since 
been signed into law:

   Minority Business Development Agency Authorization Act under 
        the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act;

   Digital Equity Act under the Infrastructure Investment and 
        Jobs Act;

   Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Affordable 
        Connectivity Program under the Infrastructure Investment and 
        Jobs Act;

   Small Business Administration Small Business Community 
        Advantage Pilot Program under the American Rescue Plan;

   FCC's Emergency Connectivity Fund under the American Rescue 
        Plan.

    In addition, I helped influence the modification of the following 
proposals which are pending before Congress:

   National Apprenticeship Act of 2021

   Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022

    I also helped draft comment letters on behalf of the National Urban 
League for inclusion in the Federal Register related to the following:

   Implementation of the FCC Affordable Connectivity Program 
        under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Docket No. 
        21-450)

   NTIA implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and 
        Jobs Act (Request for Comment, Docket No. 220105-0002, RIN 
        0660-ZA33)

    As I noted during my committee staff interview, I was not a 
registered lobbyist during the period covered, did not perform legal 
work for NUL, and did not represent them as a ``client''. Further, 
these activities did not constitute a significant part of my daily 
responsibilities and in fact took up less than twenty percent of my 
time. The majority of my responsibilities include managing a team, 
drafting policies, executing a schedule of quarterly policy briefings 
and an annual legislative policy conference, project management, 
research, and keeping Urban League affiliate leaders current on Federal 
policy changes.
            Sincerely,
                                               Susie Feliz.
                                 ______

[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
                                 

    Senator Klobuchar. Thank you very much. Mr. Cravins.

          STATEMENT OF DONALD R. CRAVINS, JR., NOMINEE

         TO BE UNDER SECRETARY OF COMMERCE FOR MINORITY

       BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

    Mr. Cravins. Thank you, Senator. Good morning, Acting Chair 
Klobuchar, Ranking Member Wicker, and my condolences to Senator 
Cantwell and her family. Members of the Committee, it is an 
honor to appear before you today as the first ever nominee for 
Undersecretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development.
    I am grateful to President Biden for the nomination, and I 
thank him and Secretary Raimondo for their confidence in me. I 
am joined this morning by my wife of 24 years, almost 25, 
Yvette Puckett Cravins. She has been a tremendous partner and 
an invaluable supporter in both my personal and my professional 
life.
    We have raised three wonderful children. Our oldest, 
Dominique Claire, just completed her first year, the Washington 
and Lee School of Law. My middle child, my son, Donald Cravins 
the III, Trey, will be a third year cadet at the United States 
Military Academy at West Point. I am sure he is sleeping right 
now. He had duty last night, Senators.
    And last but certainly not least is Chloe Denise Cravins. 
She is a fifth grader and loves playing her clarinet. In many 
ways, this is a full circle life moment for me. In 2009, I 
began working just two floors above this room as the Staff 
Director of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship committee. 
But my desire to work on small business issues began well 
before 2009. Early in my life, I developed a passion for the 
success of minority owned businesses.
    My parents, Donald Senior and Patricia, have owned and 
operated a small business in Louisiana for over 30 years. And 
during that time, members, I witnessed the unique struggles of 
small, minority owned businesses, but I also realized the 
potential of the American entrepreneurial ecosystem. Despite 
obstacles, my parents, like millions of minority, American 
minority business owners, they persevered and afforded my 
siblings and me the benefits of our great country.
    After graduating from Louisiana State University and 
earning my law degree from the Southern University Law Center, 
I successfully ran for the Louisiana State Legislature in 2004. 
As a State representative and later a State Senator, I 
represented hundreds of businesses. Many were minority owned, 
and many were located in rural communities.
    In the period following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I 
assisted my constituents with navigating the challenges related 
to recovery and rebuilding. I became a voice for small 
business. I became a champion for business owners.
    And as a result, former U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu chose me 
to become Staff Director of the United States committee on 
Small Business and Entrepreneurship upon her becoming chair. 
While there, I played an integral role in the drafting and the 
passage of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010, negotiating 
with stakeholders on both sides of the aisle, including the 
Administration.
    I organized multiple bipartisan hearings and roundtables 
focused on and featuring minority businesses from both urban 
and rural areas. I should note that during--that my commitment 
to public service also motivated me to join the Army National 
Guard during my time with the Committee.
    In my current position as the Executive Vice President of 
the National Urban League, I have continued my work and my 
passion for entrepreneurship. The National Urban League 
operates 13 entrepreneurship centers across America, focused on 
the development of minority owned businesses, and I play a key 
role in the success of those centers.
    With the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs 
Act, the Minority Business Development Agency is expected to 
increase its programing to support the Nation's 9.2 million 
minority owned businesses. If I am confirmed, the MBDA will 
operate as a data driven, policy focused agency aimed at 
increasing minority business enterprises' access to capital, 
contracts, Government services, and business opportunities.
    MBDA will implement a significant research agenda to 
identify economic conditions, market trends, and opportunities 
that foster the growth and global competitiveness of the next 
generation of minority business enterprises. If confirmed, I 
will focus on three priorities.
    First, I will assess the agency to determine its strengths 
and its challenges and begin responsibly building the agency to 
meet the full potential of the Act. Second, I will work to 
ensure the MBDA is providing the support and the resources 
minority business enterprises need to succeed.
    Last, I look forward to expanding the geographic reach of 
the MBDA to rural communities. In addition to my family and my 
professional accomplishments, I am also proud of my military 
career. I currently serve as a major in the Army National 
Guard. If confirmed, I promise to serve the MBDA with the same 
integrity I have exhibited as an officer in our Nation's 
military.
    Senators, I believe my unique life experiences, both in the 
private and the public sector, make me the right American to 
become the first Undersecretary for Minority Business in the 
Department of Commerce. And I respectfully ask for your 
consideration. Thank you.
    [The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr. 
Cravins follow:]

    Prepared Statement of Donald R. Cravins, Jr., Nominee for Under 
     Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development, U.S. 
                         Department Of Commerce
    Chair Cantwell, Ranking Member Wicker, and members of the 
Committee.

    It is an honor to appear before you today as the first ever nominee 
for Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development. I am 
grateful to President Biden for the nomination, and I thank him and 
Secretary Raimondo for their confidence in me.
    I am joined this morning by my wife of 24 years, Yvette Puckett 
Cravins--she has been a tremendous partner and an invaluable supporter 
in both my personal and professional life. We've raised three wonderful 
children. Our oldest, Dominique Claire just completed her first year at 
the Washington & Lee School of Law. My middle child, Donald Cravins, 
III (Trey), will be a third-year cadet at the United States Military 
Academy at West Point. And last but certainly not least, is Chloe 
Denise Cravins. She is a 5th grader and loves playing her clarinet.
    In many ways, this is a full-circle life moment for me. In 2009, I 
began working just two floors above this room as the staff director of 
the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee. But, my desire to 
work on small business issues began well before 2009. Early in my life, 
I developed a passion for the success of minority-owned businesses. My 
parents, Donald Sr. and Patricia have owned and operated a small 
business in Louisiana for over 30 years. During that time, I witnessed 
the unique struggles of small, minority-owned businesses but also 
realized the potential of the American entrepreneurial ecosystem. 
Despite obstacles, my parents, like millions of American minority 
business owners, persevered--affording my siblings and me the benefits 
of our great country.
    After graduating from Louisiana State University and earning my law 
degree from the Southern University Law Center, I successfully ran for 
Louisiana State Legislature in 2004. As a state representative and 
later a state senator, I represented hundreds of businesses--many were 
minority-owned, and many located in rural communities. In the period 
following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I assisted my constituents with 
navigating the challenges related to recovery and rebuilding. I became 
a voice and a champion for business owners. As a result, former U.S. 
Senator Mary Landrieu chose me to become Staff Director of the U.S. 
Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship upon her 
becoming Chair.
    While there, I played an integral role in the drafting and passage 
of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010, negotiating with stakeholders 
on both sides of the aisle and the Administration. I organized multiple 
bipartisan hearings and roundtables focused on and featuring minority-
owned businesses from both urban and rural areas. I should note that my 
commitment to public service also motivated me to join the Army 
National Guard during my time with the Committee. In my current 
position as the Executive Vice President of the National Urban League, 
I have continued my work and passion for entrepreneurship. The National 
Urban League operates thirteen entrepreneurship centers across America 
focused on the development of minority-owned businesses and I play a 
key role in success of those centers.
    With the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the 
Minority Business Development Agency is expected to increase its 
programming and support to the Nation's 9.2 million minority-owned 
businesses. If I am confirmed, the MBDA will operate as a data-driven, 
policy-focused agency aimed at increasing minority business 
enterprises' access to contracts, capital, government services, and 
business opportunities. MBDA will implement a significant research 
agenda to identify economic conditions, market trends, and 
opportunities that foster the growth and global competitiveness of the 
next generation of minority business enterprises. If confirmed, I will 
focus on three priorities. First, I will assess the agency to determine 
its strengths and challenges and begin responsibly building the agency 
to meet the full potential of its new mandate. Second, I will work to 
ensure the MBDA is providing the support and the resources minority 
business enterprises need to succeed. Lastly, I look forward to 
expanding the geographic reach of the MBDA to rural communities.
    In addition to my family and my professional accomplishments, I'm 
also proud of my military career. I currently serve as a Major in the 
Army National Guard. If confirmed, I promise to serve the MBDA with the 
same integrity I've exhibited as an officer in our Nation's military. 
Senators, I believe my unique life experiences, both in the private and 
the public sector, make me the right American to become the first Under 
Secretary for Minority Business Development and I respectfully ask for 
your favorable consideration. Thank you.
                                 ______
                                 
                      a. biographical information
    1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Donald Ray 
Cravins, Jr.
    2. Position to which nominated: Under Secretary for Minority 
Business Development, Department of Commerce.
    3. Date of Nomination: May 9, 2022.
    4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):

        Residence: Information not released to the public.
        Office: 80 Pine Street, New York, New York 10005.

    5. Date and Place of Birth: 07/31/1972; Houston, Texas.
    6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your 
spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including 
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).

        Spouse--Yvette Puckett Cravins, Senior Counsel at Pillsbury 
        Winthrop Shaw Pittman

        Daughter--Dominique Claire Cravins--Age 22

        Son--Donald Ray Cravins, III--Age 20

    7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school 
attended.

        Louisiana State University--BA, Political Science (1994)
        Southern University Law Center--Juris Doctor (1998)

    8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all 
management level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to 
the position for which you are nominated.

        Don Cravins Insurance Agency--sales agent (1994-1996)

        John Breaux for U.S. Senate Reelection Campaign--Deputy 
        Campaign manager (1998)

        McGlinchey Stafford PLLC--Associate Attorney (1998-2001)

        Domengeaux, Wright, Roy, & Edwards, LLC--Associate Attorney 
        (2001-2009)

        Louisiana State Legislature--State Representative (2004-2006)--
        This was a management-level job that relates to the position 
        for which I am nominated.

        Louisiana State Legislature--State Senator (2006-2009)--This 
        was a management-level job that relates to the position for 
        which I am nominated.

        United States Senate--Staff Director and Chief Counsel of the 
        Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee (2009-2013)--This 
        was a management-level job that relates to the position for 
        which I am nominated.

        United States Senate--Chief of Staff, U.S. Senator Mary L. 
        Landrieu (2013-2015)--This was a management-level job that 
        relates to the position for which I am nominated.

        Louisiana Army National Guard--(2011-2015)

        District of Columbia Army National Guard (2015 to present)

        The George Washington University--Adjunct Professor (2010 to 
        present)

        The American Israel Public Affairs Committee--Deputy Political 
        Director (2015)

        National Urban League--Senior Vice President of Policy (2015-
        2018)--This was a management-level job that relates to the 
        position for which I am nominated.

        Charter Communications--Vice President (2018-2021)

        National Urban League--Executive Vice President (2021 to 
        present)--This was a management-level job that relates to the 
        position for which I am nominated.

    9. Attach a copy of your resume. Attached.
    10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time 
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other 
than those listed above, within the last ten years. None.
    11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee, 
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any 
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise, 
educational, or other institution within the last ten years.
    Please see responsive positions already reported in question 8 
above, and the following:

        Board Member--Energy Foundation

        Board Member--Keystone Policy Institute

        Advisory Board Member--Poder Latinx

        Advisory Board Member--Louisiana Youth Seminar

        President--Pinchback Group, LLC

        Board of Directors--100 Black Men of Prince George's County

        Chair--Alpha Political Action Committee

        Board Member--Louisiana State University National Foundation 
        Board

        Chair--NUL Federal Credit Union

        Advisory Board Member--ALLvanza

        Board Member--aParent Miracles Foundation

        Trustee--Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Trust

    12. Please list each membership you have had during the past ten 
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, 
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or 
religiously affiliated organization, private club, or other membership 
organization. (For this question, you do not have to list your 
religious affiliation or membership in a religious house of worship or 
institution.). Include dates of membership and any positions you have 
held with any organization. Please note whether any such club or 
organization restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color, 
religion, national origin, age, or disability.

        West Point Parents Club of Maryland, DC, and Virginia--(2019 to 
        present)

        The Rocks, Inc.--Life Member (2019 to present)

        Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.--Life Member (1991 to 
        present). This organization restricts membership to men.

        100 Black Men of Prince George's County--Board of Directors 
        (2020 to present). This organization restricts membership to 
        men.

        Louisiana State Bar Association--Member (1998 to present)

        Louisiana Youth Seminar--Advisory Board (1998 to present)

        Energy Foundation--Board Member (2020 to present)

        Keystone Policy Center--Board Member (2018-2020)

        Louisiana State University National Foundation Board--Honorary 
        Board Member (2018 to present)

        Greater Washington Urban League Guild--Volunteer Member (2018 
        to present)

        Alpha Political Action Committee--Chair (2020 to present)

        NUL Federal Credit Union--Chair (2021 to present)

        ALLvanza--Advisory Board Member (2021 to present)

        Poder Latinx--Advisory Board (2019 to present)

        aParent Miracles Foundation--Board Member (2021 to present)

        National Bar Association--Member (2020)

        Washington Bar Association--Member (2020)

    13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office 
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any 
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are 
personally liable for that debt.

        Elected to the Louisiana Democratic State Central Committee--
        2002

        Elected to the St. Landry Parish, Louisiana Democratic 
        Executive Committee--2002

        Elected to the Louisiana State House of Representatives--2004

        Elected to the Louisiana State Senate--2006, reelected in 2007

        Candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, Louisiana's 
        7th Congressional District--2008

    No campaigns have outstanding debt, and my campaign account is 
closed.
    14. List all memberships and offices held with and services 
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or 
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid 
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether 
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years, 
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year 
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities.
    I serve as the Chair of the Alpha Political Action Committee. This 
is an unpaid position.
    15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign 
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar 
entity of $200 or more for the past ten years.

        Troy Carter for Congress (10/18/21)

        Troy Carter for Congress (02/17/21)

        Klobuchar for Minnesota (07/22/21)

        Warnock for Georgia (10/10/20)

        Dr. Camron Webb for Congress (10/01/20)

        Michael Blake for Congress (06/19/2020)

        Michael Blake for Congress (09/30/2019)

        Scott for Congress (09/23/19)

        Alpha Political Action Committee (09/18/20)

        Wes Moore for Governor of Maryland (10/28/21)

        Friends of Anthony Brown (5/7/2022)

    16. List all scholarships, fellowships. honorary degrees, honorary 
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition 
for outstanding service or achievements.

        Army Meritorious Service Medal--2 awards

        Army Commendation Medal--3 awards

        Air Force Commendation Medal

        Army Achievement Medal

        Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal--2 awards

        National Defense Service Medal

        Armed Forces Service Medal

        Humanitarian Service Medal Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

        Washington DC National Guard Homeland Defense Ribbon

        Washington DC National Guard Emergency Service Ribbon

        Louisiana National Guard Commendation Medal

        Louisiana National Guard Emergency Ribbon

        Southern University Law Center Hall of Fame Inductee (2018)

        Southern University Law Center Distinguished Alumni Inductee 
        (2015)

        Advocate of the Year--National Bar Association (2020)

        Distinguished Alumni of Louisiana State University Inductee 
        (2015)

        Professionalism Award--Louisiana State Bar Association Young 
        Lawyer Section (2003)

    17. Please list each book, article, column, Internet blog posting, 
or other publication you have authored, individually or with others. 
Include a link to each publication when possible. Also list any 
speeches that you have given on topics relevant to the position for 
which you have been nominated. Do not attach copies of these 
publications unless otherwise instructed.
Publications

        ``Entrepreneurial Inequity in America'' (2022) https://
        www.axios.com/2022/05/10/driver-of-the-racial-wealth-gap-
        business-ownership

        ``How HBCUs help shape the entrepreneurial ecosystem'' (2022) 
        https://www
        .thirdway.org/report/how-hbcus-help-shape-the-entrepreneurial-
        ecosystem#::
        text=search%20for%20funding.,Specifically%3A,help%20entrepreneur
        s%20find%
        20external%20funding

        Diversity Equity and Inclusion column: https://techcrunch.com/
        2021/12/03/ dont-let-new-hybrid-workplaces-keep-the-old-
        systemic-racism/ (2021).

        ``Smart Cities, Inclusive Growth: Harnessing the Enormous 
        Economic Promise of Next Generation Networks'' published in the 
        National Urban League's State of Black America Report (2018).

        ``21st Century Innovations in Energy: An Equiv Framework,'' 
        published in the National Urban League's State of Black America 
        Report, (2016).
Speeches and Presentations

        March 23, 2011--Small Business Growth-Louisiana Economic 
        Development, spoke on the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010.

        April 19, 2010--``The Small Business Committee's Big Impact for 
        Small Business'' delivered to the International Economic 
        Development Council.

        April 2, 2011--spoke to the California Black Chamber of 
        Commerce about the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010.

        July 20, 2011--spoke at the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce's 
        Advocacy Day on the Hill.

        April 13, 2012--spoke to the Greater Southwest Louisiana Black 
        Chamber of Commerce on the State of Small Business.

        May 16, 2012--spoke to the Jefferson Parish, Louisiana Chamber 
        of Commerce Small Business Awards Luncheon.

        May 31, 2012--spoke to the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce 
        about the state of small business.

        July 27, 2012--spoke at the National Urban League's Annual 
        Conference on the Small Business Ecosystem.

        Developed and moderated Small Business Day at the National 
        Urban League's Legislative Policy Conference (2016).

        November 3-4, 2016--created and moderated ``Advocacy Essentials 
        for Chamber of Commerce Leaders.'' The event was sponsored by 
        the Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame.

        Testified before the Democratic Platform Drafting Committee of 
        the Democratic National Convention--(June 9, 2016)

        Submitted written testimony to the Republican Platform Drafting 
        Committee of the Republican National Convention (2016).

        Developed and moderated the Small Business Day at the National 
        Urban League Legislative Policy Conference (2017).

        May 23, 2017--spoke at the Edison Electric Institute's Business 
        Diversity Conference about the state of minority business 
        enterprises.

    18. List all digital platforms (including social media and other 
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated 
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your 
name or an alias. Include the name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'' you 
have used on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account 
is active, deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if 
possible.

        Facebook--www.facebook.com/donald.cravins

        Twitter--@don_cravins

        LinkedIn--www.linkedin.com/in/donaldcravins

        Instagram--www.instagram.com/donaldcravins

    19. Please identify each instance in which you have testified 
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each 
testimony.
    Testified before the U.S. House Financial Services Committee's 
Subcommittee on Diversity and Inclusion at a hybrid hearing entitled 
``The Legacy of George Floyd: An Examination of Financial Services 
Industry Commitments to Economic and Racial Justice'' on June 29, 2021. 
My testimony focused on the importance of America's financial 
institutions in addressing the racial wealth gap and other inequities 
that persist in our country.
    20. Given the current mission, major programs, and major 
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been 
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you 
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for 
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that 
position?
    My parents have owned and operated a small business for over 30 
years. During that time, I witnessed the struggles of small business 
ownership and the unique obstacles business owners of color encounter. 
Despite these obstacles, the fruits of that business were a large 
factor in my development and success and have shaped my passion for 
supporting minority-owned businesses. Given the newly expanded mission 
for the Minority Business Development Agency, I believe my background 
and life experiences in the areas of minority business policy, my 
management and budgeting skills, and as importantly, my leadership and 
integrity affirmatively qualify me for appointment to the position of 
Under Secretary.
    Minority Business Policy. As a former state legislator, I 
represented thousands of businesses, many of which were minority-owned 
and many located in rural communities. In the period following 
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I became deeply aware of the challenges 
businesses face related to recovery, insurance, and resiliency. During 
my service as Chair of the Louisiana State Senate Insurance Committee, 
I developed a solid reputation for being a voice and champion for 
business owners. As a result of my work in Louisiana, I was chosen by 
former U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu to become the Staff Director and 
Chief Counsel of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and 
Entrepreneurship in 2009. While there, I gained critical knowledge of 
the committee process and the importance of oversight and 
responsiveness to the United States Senate. I also played an integral 
role in the drafting and passage of the Small Business Jobs Act of 
2010, negotiating with stakeholders on both sides of the aisle and the 
Administration. In my current position as the Executive Vice President 
of the National Urban League, I have continued my work and passion for 
entrepreneurship. The National Urban League operates thirteen 
entrepreneurship centers across America focused on the specific 
development of minority businesses. I play a key role in the oversight 
and success of those centers and the programs they operate.
    Management & Budgeting. As a legislator, I collaborated with my 
colleagues to manage the state budget during challenging times in 
Louisiana's history. When I transitioned to Federal service and became 
Staff Director and Chief Counsel of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small 
Business and Entrepreneurship, I managed the majority staff and budget. 
I also served as an effective manager as Chief of Staff for former U.S. 
Senator Mary L. Landrieu. In my current role as Executive Vice 
President and Chief Operating Officer of one of the Nation's largest 
civil rights and community services organizations, I manage over one 
hundred employees and a multi million dollar budget. In each of these 
roles, I served as an effective leader, manager, and fiscal agent.
    Integrity. Throughout both my professional and military careers, I 
have served with integrity. I have never been disciplined or cited for 
a breach of ethics or professional misconduct. I have also served 
honorably as an officer in the Army National Guard.
    21. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to 
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting 
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large 
organization?
    If confirmed, I will be responsible for standing up a new 
statutorily authorized agency. This will require management and 
accounting controls, the oversight of an expansion, and growth to meet 
the statutory requirements of the agency. As a former state legislator, 
I have experience managing a public budget and being a fiduciary of 
government spending. Also, as a former Staff Director, Chief Counsel, 
and Chief of Staff in the U.S. Senate, I have personally managed large 
teams and large budgets. In my current position, I serve as the chief 
operating officer of one of the Nation's largest civil rights and 
community services organizations. Lastly, in my current capacity, I 
provide oversight and guidance to thirteen entrepreneurship centers 
operated by the National Urban League.
    22. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the 
department agency, and why?
    With the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the 
Minority Business Development Agency will be expected to increase its 
programming and outreach to the Nation's more than 9 million minority-
owned businesses.
    I believe the top three challenges also offer three areas of 
opportunity and center around: (1) building capacity; (2) ensuring 
minority business enterprises have the tools and resources needed to 
level the entrepreneurial playing field; and (3) expanding the 
geographic reach of the Minority Business Development Agency to rural 
areas.
    Building Capacity. It will be important to retain competent 
personnel and recruit talented individuals who have a shared passion 
for the success of minority-owned businesses. If confirmed, I commit to 
assessing the agency to determine its strengths and challenges and 
begin responsibly building a new agency according to the spirit and 
intent of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
    Tools and Resources for Minority-Owned Businesses. Another 
challenge/opportunity will be ensuring that minority-owned businesses 
have the tools and resources to participate in the opportunities 
afforded by Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The Minority 
Business Development Agency must lead the Federal Government's efforts 
to promote the growth and global competitiveness of minority business 
enterprises, which face unique challenges. Access to capital is the 
number one impediment to the success of minority business enterprises. 
If confirmed, I will work to ensure MBDA's nationwide network of 
Business Centers, programs, and initiatives address the problem through 
introductions to a national network of lending partners. The Minority 
Business Development Agency, through its national network of Business 
Centers, must continue to provide management and technical assistance, 
capacity building, education, and training to ensure inclusive 
entrepreneurship.
    Expanding Reach to Rural America. One of the challenges and 
greatest opportunities for the Minority Business Development Agency is 
the mandate to extend its geographic reach to rural communities. 
Although the Minority Business Development Agency has always provided a 
diverse array of services such as its Specialty Centers for advanced 
manufacturing, exporting, and procurement, I will work, if confirmed, 
to ensure it has a laser focus on rural businesses as well.
                   b. potential conflicts of interest
    1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation 
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates, 
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement 
accounts.
    I have a Thrift Savings Account related to my service in the Army 
National Guard.
    I have a 401(k) plan with VOYA related to my employment with the 
National Urban League.
    I have a 401 (k) with Fidelity related to my employment at Charter 
Communications.
    I have a 403 (b) with Fidelity related to my employment with George 
Washington University.
    2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal, 
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business, 
association or other organization during your appointment? If so, 
please explain.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflicts of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered with 
the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and that 
will be provided to this Committee.
    In the event an actual or potential conflict of interest arises 
during my appointment, I will consult with the Commerce Department's 
ethics counsel and take the measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other 
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in 
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will 
resolve each potential conflict of interest.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflicts of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered with 
the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and that 
will be provided to this Committee.
    In the event an actual or potential conflict of interest arises 
during my appointment, I will consult with the Commerce Department's 
ethics counsel and take the measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial 
transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for 
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in 
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the 
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve 
each potential conflict of interest.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflicts of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered with 
the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and that 
will be provided to this Committee.
    In the event an actual or potential conflict of interest arises 
during my appointment, I will consult with the Commerce Department's 
ethics counsel and take the measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest, and explain 
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
    In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with 
the Office of Government Ethics and the Designated Agency Ethics 
Official at the Department of Commerce to identify any potential 
conflicts of interest. Any conflict of interest will be resolved 
according to the terms of an ethics agreement that I have entered with 
the Commerce Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official and that 
will be provided to this Committee.
    In the event an actual or potential conflict of interest arises 
during my appointment, I will consult with the Commerce Department's 
ethics counsel and take the measures necessary to resolve the conflict.
    6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the 
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the 
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or 
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and 
execution of law or public policy.
    In 2015, while serving as Deputy National Political Director at the 
American Israel Public Affairs Committee, I educated members of the 
American Pro-Israel community and members of Congress on the importance 
of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship through foreign aid, government 
partnerships, joint anti-terrorism efforts, and the promotion of peace 
through a negotiated two-state solution.
    In 2017, while serving as the National Urban League's Senior Vice 
President for Policy, I contributed to the drafting of the National 
Urban League Main Street Marshall Plan. The Plan focused on critical 
infrastructure, education, and economic issues facing America and was 
introduced as a component of the Jobs and Justice Act (H.R. 5785-115th 
Congress (2017-2018). Also in 2017, I was part of a bi-partisan effort 
imploring Congress to fund the Minority Business Development Act in the 
FY2018 appropriations and recommending that MBDA provide an annual 
policy report to Congress to address gaps in equity between minority 
and non-minority owned firms.
                            c. legal matters
    1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics, 
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a 
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special 
Counsel, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other 
professional group? If yes:
    a. Provide the name of agency, association, committee, or group;
    Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board
    b. Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, 
or personnel action was issued or initiated;
    April 22, 2008
    c. Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or 
personnel action;
    On July 26, 2007, I filed a formal complaint with Louisiana State 
Police and my local police department notifying them a political 
adversary threatened me and my family with physical harm. Louisiana 
State Police visited with the political adversary, and he ceased his 
threatening behavior. On April 6, 2008, the political adversary 
reengaged in threatening behavior, and I again filed a formal complaint 
with the Louisiana State Police. On this occasion, he threatened to 
ruin my professional reputation as an attorney by alleging he was owed 
a fee for the referral of a legal client. A Louisiana State Police 
investigation revealed that his allegation was unfounded. To further 
perpetuate his threat, he presented this false allegation of 
professional misconduct to my law firm. The law firm was ethically 
obligated to report the matter to the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary 
Board (LADB). The LADB investigated the matter, found it 
unsubstantiated, and dismissed it. As a result of his threats and 
actions, he was arrested on April 11, 2008, by Louisiana State Police 
and charged with attempted extortion.
    d. Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action, 
complaint, or personnel action.
    The complaint was found unsubstantiated, and the matter was 
dismissed by the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board.
    2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by 
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal, 
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic 
offense? If so, please explain.
    On May 28, 1992, when I was a 19-year-old college student, I was 
arrested for misdemeanor driving while intoxicated in Baton Rouge, 
Louisiana. On August 5, 1992, I pleaded guilty to the charges in the 
19th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The docket 
number of the proceeding was 92-1151. At the time of sentencing, I 
requested imposition of the sentence be deferred under the provisions 
of Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 894. Article 894 allows 
the court to suspend sentences for misdemeanors, permitting the offense 
to be expunged from one's record if all the conditions are met. On 
November 6, 1992, the State agreed to accept my plea of guilty under 
Article 894 and not to oppose the sentencing under Article 894(b). The 
Court held that since I abided by the conditions of my probation, the 
offense should be dismissed under Article 894. The State also agreed to 
expunge my record if I did not receive another DWI within 5 years. 
Accordingly, on May 15, 1998, the DWI was expunged from my record.
    3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were 
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency 
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please 
explain. No.
    4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo 
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic 
offense? If so, please explain.
    On May 28, 1992, when I was a 19-year-old college student, I was 
arrested for misdemeanor driving while intoxicated in Baton Rouge, 
Louisiana. On August 5, 1992, I pleaded guilty to the charges in the 
19th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The docket 
number of the proceeding was 92-1151. At the time of sentencing, I 
requested imposition of the sentence be deferred under the provisions 
of Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure Article 894. Article 894 allows 
the court to suspend sentences for misdemeanors, permitting the offense 
to be expunged from one's record if all the conditions are met. On 
November 6, 1992, the State agreed to accept my plea of guilty under 
Article 894 and not to oppose the sentencing under Article 894(b). The 
Court held that since I abided by the conditions of my probation, the 
offense should be dismissed under Article 894. The State also agreed to 
expunge my record if I did not receive another DWI within 5 years. 
Accordingly, on May 15, 1998, the DWI was expunged from my record.
    5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual 
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or 
any other basis? If so, please explain. No.
    6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information, 
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in 
connection with your nomination. None.
                     d. relationship with committee
    1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with 
deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that 
your department/agency endeavors to timely comply with requests for 
information from individual Members of Congress, including requests 
from members in the minority? Yes.
    2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can 
to protect congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal 
for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
    3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested 
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with 
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
    4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly 
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be 
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
                                 ______
                                 
                        Update to Questionnaire
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Chair,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Roger Wicker,
Ranking Member,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.

Dear Chair Cantwell and Ranking Member Wicker:

    I am writing to update and correct my response to question E.4. on 
the Senate Commerce Committee Nominee Questionnaire I submitted to the 
Committee on May 21, 2022.
    Specifically, question E.4. asks whether I or my spouse, or any 
business over which we exercised control, ever failed to pay any loan 
or similar obligation when due at final maturity, or whether I was ever 
more than 180 days delinquent on any such loan obligation. I originally 
answered ``Yes'' to this question. However, as I explained during my 
interviews with your respective committee staffs, after having reviewed 
my prior mortgage payment statements, I realized the correct answer is 
``No.''
    Thank you for considering my nomination.
            Sincerely,
                                         /s/ Donald Cravins
                                                                7/26/22
                                 ______
                                 
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
                                 

    Senator Klobuchar. Thank you very much to both of you. 
Excellent job. And really impressive resumes and work and 
passion for what you are doing. I think I will start out with 
you, Ms. Feliz. We enjoy having Secretary Raimondo before this 
committee. She is always prepared, so it is probably going to 
make your job easier.
    But one of your jobs, of course, is to update the Committee 
on legislation and our staff impacting the broad mandate of the 
Department. But in particular now with the passage of the 
bipartisan infrastructure bill, one of my big priorities in 
that bill was the broadband piece. Representative Clyburn and I 
jointly led the broadband bill that was the model for the bill 
that was incorporated.
    And of course, Chairman Cantwell and Ranking Member Wicker 
also led a lot of the efforts with regard to broadband. And the 
law, as you know, entrusts the NTIA to distribute $42 billion 
in National Telecommunications and Information Administration, 
in grants for states to build out broadband to reach unserved 
and underserved areas.
    Could you talk about how you are going to coordinate the 
work of the Commerce Department bureaus, State, local, tribal 
governments to work with us in the Committee and raise 
awareness of the investments that are available across the 
board.
    Ms. Feliz. Thank you for your question, Senator, and thank 
you for your leadership in passing this historic investment in 
high speed Internet for all Americans. I can understand why 
this issue is so important to you.
    And I know that this Administration shares your commitment 
to ensuring all families and communities have access to high 
speed Internet and also to ensuring coordination among the 
various programs, broadband programs being implemented across 
several agencies.
    If confirmed, I commit to working with you and your staff, 
consulting with the career staff in NTIA and respective 
bureaus, and to keeping the lines of communication open as well 
as ensuring there is transparency with respect to how the 
Department is implementing these programs.
    Senator Klobuchar. Very good. Thank you very much. Mr. 
Cravins, Senator Wicker mentioned rural, and I have long been a 
champion for rural exports, actually, because a lot of our 
smaller companies in my State, and I am sure in his State, you 
know, can't have experts on every country in the world or speak 
the language, and then yet they have products that could do 
very well abroad.
    And Senator Hoeven and I actually introduced the Promoting 
Rural Exports Act to establish a rural export center at the 
U.S. Commercial Service, very important agency, UCS, to provide 
support to rural businesses to help them export.
    I think that MBDA currently operates four export centers 
across the country to help minority owned businesses. Could you 
talk a little bit about helping minority owned rural exporters 
access global markets, which is so much of our global future 
for our economy?
    Mr. Cravins. Well, Senator, thank you so much for the 
question and thanks for your leadership in this area. As I said 
in my opening testimony, the rural piece, Senator Klobuchar and 
Senator Wicker, is very important to me, as someone who grew up 
in rural south Louisiana. If I am confirmed members, this is a 
piece that I want to roll up my sleeves and get started working 
on as soon as possible.
    A couple of things I will say about that, Senators. One, I 
know my reading of the Act is that in order for the MBDA to do 
this work, this expanded work, $110 million is the floor for 
what that will entail. And so I will ask the members that if I 
am confirmed, you will see me again asking you for those 
resources, Senator Klobuchar, so that we can build on what the 
Act mandates the new agency will look like.
    As far as exporting, as you have mentioned, there are four 
centers that currently exist at the MBDA for exporting. When I 
get there, I would like to assess what those centers do. I 
would like to address whether or not there are any gaps in the 
work that those centers do. Even though those centers are 
located obviously in four cities, I don't think they are 
limited geographically for the help that they can provide 
nationwide.
    And so I would like to see what is the technology like so 
that if minority businesses in Minneapolis want to access and 
need help, can they reach out to San Antonio or to Miami or 
Houston or Arizona to do that? And if not, Senator, how can we 
work with your team to change that?
    And so, again, if I am confirmed, I will work very hard to 
make sure that our rural piece talks about exporting, 
manufacturing, and really just bringing the resources to 
minority businesses in rural America, in some cases, for the 
first time.
    Senator Klobuchar. OK. We are seeing a manufacturing skills 
gap estimated to leave over 2 million jobs unfilled by 2030, 
could cost the U.S. economy big time. Minority owned 
manufacturing firms represent over 10 percent of all U.S. 
manufacturing firms and report similar challenges. Quickly, in 
your opinion, what can Congress do to help minority owned 
manufacturers get the resources they need to grow?
    Mr. Cravins. I think we can--thank you, Senator. I think 
what we can do is build upon the work, I think, that MBDA has 
been doing with the creation of these four and the existence of 
these four centers that are currently there.
    I think we can use the power of the new Act, which allows 
the Undersecretary to take testimony, to do research, to work 
across agency, Commerce Department, as well as all 
administrative agencies to see how we can leverage the 
resources of the Federal Government.
    Senator Klobuchar. Thank you. And I am going to just follow 
up in writing on two topics local to me. Neighborhood 
development center based in Saint Paul, has really helped 
thousands of entrepreneurs in our State.
    We are very proud of it and would like to get your views in 
writing on working with these community based initiatives. And 
then second, Mayo Clinic, also seeking out employees, has 
combined with the Rochester, Minnesota branch of the NAACP to 
work with our HBCUs across the country to recruit the next 
generation of doctors, nurses, and others in the medical 
profession.
    So I will ask you about that in writing. I am going to, 
after Senator Wicker finishes, turning over the gavel to 
Senator Schatz who is here. And I want to thank both of you. 
Thank you.
    Senator Wicker. Thank you, Senator Klobuchar. I appreciate 
that very much. Ms. Feliz, as Legislative Intergovernmental 
Affairs Assistant Secretary, you are going to realize more and 
more how diverse the Department of Commerce is. And so you can 
be conversant about a number of issues.
    I want to talk with you today about NOAA, the National 
Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, and particularly 
their rules on a rather precise issue of the catch limit for 
red snapper fishermen. And it may be that you haven't really 
delved into this very much, but this is something that we are 
going to have to deal with the Department of Commerce and with 
NOAA.
    There are annual catch limits in the Gulf of Mexico on red 
snapper. As a matter of fact, there are limits established by 
NOAA and by the Government that are deeply flawed to the 
detriment of our sports fishermen in Mississippi. If allowed to 
be implemented, it would reduce Mississippi's red snapper quota 
by 60 percent. Dr. Spinrad, the NOAA Administrator, has said, 
and I quote, ``there is no way the proposed calibration would 
pass peer review.''
    So we have the NOAA Director actually saying publicly that 
this is flawed data. Now, on the other hand Ms. Feliz, the 
State of Mississippi has implemented a very detailed assessment 
called Tails and Scales, that actually involves catching a 
number of red snappers, weighing them on the scales, and 
providing that data.
    Now, we had thought that NOAA would incorporate the data 
that--the good data that we have provided in terms of the 
annual catch limits in place of this flawed data, which Dr. 
Spinrad said would never pass peer review. That sadly has not 
been done. And it seems as though the agency, unless we make 
some changes, is going to be going to push forward with this 
flawed data.
    And we just cannot tolerate that down in the state of 
Mississippi. So will you commit to getting up to speed on this 
issue, to making sure that the Secretary understands the 
importance of this issue, as I know she does, and that you all 
work with our friends at NOAA to make sure that this data is as 
accurate as possible?
    Ms. Feliz. Thank you for your thoughtful question, Senator. 
I understand how important this issue is for you and your 
constituents. Fishing in the Gulf Coast is a prosperous 
industry that has a huge impact on the American people that you 
represented in your home state of Mississippi.
    Yes, Senator, I do commit to, if confirmed, getting up to 
speed on this issue. I know this is an issue you care very 
deeply about. And if confirmed, I will make a commitment to 
work with you and your staff to ensure that we are listening to 
your views and ensure that there are open lines of 
communication as well as transparency with respect to how the 
Department and Bureau is implementing this rule.
    Senator Wicker. Thank you, ma'am. And I might add that one 
reason I am going to be leaving this hearing early this morning 
is to go and meet in my office with Dr. Spinrad. So, I think it 
is a multi-thousand, thousand job issue and millions and 
millions of dollars for our economy.
    So thank you very much. Now, Mr. Cravins, I think it is 
probably becoming clear to both of you that you are going to be 
confirmed with flying colors. And so thank you, Mr. Cravins, 
for saying and agreeing to follow through on rural minority 
business development too. And I appreciate what you said about 
being a military veteran. And I note Captain Feliz, retired 
Navy Captain Feliz is here.
    In my view, the United States military is the most 
successful civil rights program in the history of the world. 
And I witnessed it as an Air Force cadet answerable to minority 
superiors when I was in college as an Air Force active duty 
member, as an Air Force reservist.
    So I appreciate the fact that you see that as a way to 
perhaps draw some of the retirees that have had this great 
leadership experience in this great civil rights experiment 
into small business.
    We have got 9.2 million minority businesses now. Is it 
realistic to establish a numerical goal, do you think? And I 
realize this is coming out of the blue, but do you think there 
is some merit in saying by the end of x date we will have x 
number of million?
    Mr. Cravins. Senator, thank you for the question and thanks 
for your leadership on this issue. Thank you for your 
leadership and the support of the MBDA throughout the years. So 
great question, Senator. And I think about it often. As a 
military man, I do understand that goals are important.
    Without them, we can't measure successes and we can't 
measure failures. What I would say, and again, I can't speak 
for the Administration until I am confirmed, I do believe, 
though, some goals are important. What makes goals real or not 
is that they are based upon input. And so if we were to create 
goals, Senator Wicker, I would want to work with you and the 
members of this committee.
    I would want to work with stakeholders. I would want to 
work with the men and women who have been doing this work for 
over 50 years and set realistic, rational goals. And then we 
could measure ourselves, Senator, so that when you call me 
before this committee again for an oversight hearing, or to 
answer some questions, I will have something I can measure it 
by.
    Without it, we just really kind of just shooting in the 
dark, shooting blind. I think our minority businesses, you have 
got 82,000 in Mississippi. I think they would want us to have 
some reasonable, realistic goals for us to live by so that you 
and I could go down and talk about these goals in Jackson.
    I could go to the acorn State, and I will go as long as it 
is not a Saturday, and it is football season. I will go to all 
your schools----
    [Laughter.]
    Senator Wicker. That might be the very time to go.
    [Laughter.]
    Senator Wicker. Well, we are intruding on the time of other 
members. Let me just say this, Senator Klobuchar, and to my 
fellow members of the Committee, if we can have a breakthrough 
in this area, I cannot express how important it would be to the 
economy of this country. If we could have a quantum leap in 
minority business entrepreneurship, that would be a game 
changer. We are looking to you.
    Senator Klobuchar. OK. So well said. Well, Senator Schatz, 
we turn this over to you, knowing now that the Ranking Member 
said these two nominees are going to go through with flying 
colors. That is a lot on your shoulders, but I leave it in your 
hands. Thank you.

                STATEMENT OF HON. BRIAN SCHATZ, 
                    U.S. SENATOR FROM HAWAII

    Senator Schatz. Thank you very much, Senator Klobuchar and 
Ranking Member Wicker. Senator Blunt is ready to ask questions 
and I would be happy to defer to him.

                 STATEMENT OF HON. ROY BLUNT, 
                   U.S. SENATOR FROM MISSOURI

    Senator Blunt. Well, thank you, Senator. I am going to go 
to the ceremony in the rotunda in a moment for the last Medal 
of Honor winner from World War II. And that is why I am 
leaving, not because I have any lack of interest in these two 
jobs. I would say, Don Cravins understands a lot about the 
Senate, a lot about the Congress, and fortunately because of 
that, a lot about Missouri.
    So I like that, and I understand your family commitment to 
the Government and to these issues. You know, this new job, and 
I may be missing some of your opening statements. Give me a 
little bit of a summary of what you hope to have happen here.
    This is a job we created in this Congress in a bipartisan 
way to reach out in a way that we haven't before. How do you 
see yourself building on that job and how do you see yourself 
advocating for the businesses that we were hoping to include in 
a more dramatic way?
    Mr. Cravins. Senator, thank you so much for the question 
and thanks for your commitment to minority businesses. As you 
know, you have got almost 70,000 in your great State. Senator, 
the reason why I was interested in this job was because, as you 
know, the MBDA was created in 1969 by President Nixon.
    And every President, Republican or Democrat since then, has 
said we need a minority business development agency because 
minority businesses are facing unique challenges in our 
country.
    Because of your leadership, this Congress's leadership, and 
President Biden's leadership, for the first time, you all said 
as well--and not only should the agency exist, but we need to 
grow it, we need to make it intentional, and we need an 
Undersecretary, real leadership, and an added level of 
leadership to make the agency work and be intentional.
    And so for me, Senator, this is a dream come true, a prayer 
answered, to be able to do this work and to be able to do it at 
such a level in this Administration and with this Congress. My 
goals, Senator, are very quickly to, one, assess the agency to 
see all of the great work it has been doing, but to address 
gaps and challenges that maybe the current MBDA may be facing.
    The second goal of my Senator is to grow it according to 
the mandates of the Act. I joke, I have never had a job with a 
better job description than this one. You all passed an 80 page 
Act not even a year ago, saying expressly, this is what we want 
our MBDA to look like.
    This is who we want it to serve, and this is how we want 
you to serve it. And so the second goal, Senator, is to make 
sure that the team and I understand the Act. And then last, 
Senator, we are going to execute.
    And if we are fully funded, if we are funded according to 
what you all said we need, I want to expand to rural areas. I 
want to bring MBDA to a new generation. Our entrepreneurs of 
today don't necessarily look like the entrepreneurs of 
yesterday. Supporting those entrepreneurs of yesterday, but how 
do we build the next generation?
    The Act calls for the Parren Mitchell Grant program to be 
created. Former Congressman Parren Mitchell, who, you know, was 
a big, big promoter of minority businesses. I look at that 
program as one, Senator Blunt, where we can go to HBCUs and 
other minority serving institutions and we can invest in the 
future entrepreneurs of this country.
    So I hope you can hear the passion in my voice, Senator. I 
am excited about this opportunity. I am asking for your support 
to be confirmed, and I am ready to roll up my sleeves and get 
started.
    Senator Blunt. Well, you are going to have my support to be 
confirmed. And Ms. Feliz, I would say, you too have, you know, 
the background in the House and the Senate. I think that to 
have people in these jobs that understand the importance of 
communicating with the legislative branch of Government and 
helping reach out to be sure we are giving you the tools you 
need, and at the same time you understand the intention of the 
job you are asked to do.
    And as the court recently put some new responsibilities or 
reminded the Congress, rather, of its old responsibilities, 
which was your job is to pass the laws, your job is not to 
leave a lot of things that people who are appointed to jobs 
have to try to figure out what you meant. And help us help you 
do that as well.
    So, Senator Schatz, thanks for letting me move forward 
here. And best of luck to both of you and good to see you both 
here today.
    Senator Schatz. Senator Tester.

                 STATEMENT OF HON. JON TESTER, 
                   U.S. SENATOR FROM MONTANA

    Senator Tester. Chairman Schatz, thank you very much. Mr. 
Cravins, thank you for being here and your willingness to 
serve. I was part of the five Republicans and five Democrats 
who worked together to get the bipartisan infrastructure 
package done.
    And why that is important, from your perspective, is that 
it made permanent the Minority Business Development Agency. And 
as a result, the agency's capacity and reach have been expanded 
in what I think is a much needed way. I want to talk about 
natives.
    Can you talk about how this expansion of capacity will help 
tribal communities, and what types of commitments you would 
prioritize in that regard?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you so much, Senator Tester. And thank 
you as well for your leadership and for your willingness to 
support the MBDA. Senator, the native community, the indigenous 
community is very important to me. It is important to me 
because, one, I grew up in a community that was extremely 
diverse.
    And two, because of the work that I have done just 
throughout my lifetime. I have represented members of the 
community, and at the National Urban League, I am very, very 
attuned to inequities that exist in underserved communities. 
First of all, Senator, what I would do if confirmed is I would 
look at the current programing that already focuses on the 
native community.
    And as you know, MBDA has several programs that focus on 
the American Indian, Alaska Native, and the Native Hawaiian 
communities. And so I would work on those, Senator, to make 
sure that those are working, see if there are any gaps, and to 
fill those gaps.
    The other place, Senator Tester, that I think we can work 
on to address the needs of the tribal, the native, the 
indigenous communities--as you know, Senator, many of those 
communities are located in rural communities, in remote rural 
communities.
    And so, again, if we fund the MBDA at the levels that you 
all said we needed to be funded, the $110 million, and we can 
really build out the rural entrepreneurship centers, I believe 
many of those centers could focus on the indigenous, the native 
populations.
    Senator Tester. Boy, I have got a lot of questions. I will 
just go with the first one that was top of my head, and I thank 
you for your answer to that question. Now, how do you make sure 
that that money has been actually getting to the ground and 
doing what you intended to do?
    Mr. Cravins. Senator, I think it is leadership. The type of 
style that I have is you trust, you hire smart people, you hire 
good men and women to do the job, but you verify. So I trust 
but verify.
    And so I believe that when you supported changing the role 
of MBDA, expanding the role of MBDA, creating an Undersecretary 
role for the MBDA, was that you wanted someone that you could 
call to the mat if necessary, to ask those questions.
    And so, Senator, I am going to make sure that if I am 
confirmed that I lead that type of agency, I have those types 
of individuals who are working for me, and that I can come and 
talk to you to make sure it is getting done and being done 
correctly.
    Senator Tester. Appreciate that, Mr. Cravins. So I want to 
talk about the reservations that don't have the necessary 
physical infrastructure for business development. How do you 
envision helping them?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you, Senator, for the question. I 
envision helping them through technology. The fact that we are 
having a hearing today and you are paying remotely, I know my 
days at the Senate, even in 2009, that would have been unheard 
of.
    And the fact that we are all now able to zoom and meet 
virtually, I believe we can amplify the existing resources. And 
as we build out, we can amplify resources and we can meet 
people where they are without having to necessarily build a 
physical structure in every rural community or have a physical 
presence in every single community.
    I think through technology, Senator, smart technology, we 
can service communities all across this great Nation.
    Senator Tester. So let me ask you this. A lot of the tribes 
may not know you even exist. How do you reach out to those 
folks? What do you use? You are invited to come to Montana, and 
we will do a tour of all seven reservations, but the fact is, 
that is kind of impractical as it applies to all the 
reservations in the country. How do you reach out to them? How 
do you let them know what you have to offer?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you for the question, Senator. And that 
is something that I look forward to. I think one of the most 
pressing issues I look forward to. The MBDA has to amplify and 
change its appearance. It has to amplify its knowledge.
    And I think that is why you all made a--codified it so that 
people do know that it exists. The honor of being the first, 
Senator Tester, is a blessing but also in a burden of making 
sure that that actually happens, that we make sure we get to 
people, meet them where they are, and that they understand that 
there is help for them.
    And so, Senator, I am going to work very hard with the 
existing centers. I am going to work very hard with the Members 
of Congress. I am going to work very hard with--if we are fully 
funded to create rural business centers.
    And also, Senator, I will mention the Act also said, if 
fully funded, we could create regional centers, which currently 
the MBDA does not have regional centers. I believe regional 
centers could also assist with the issue you raise about 
awareness.
    As you know, most of our Federal Governments have regional 
offices and so people are able to access those offices nearer 
to home. MBDA currently does not have that.
    Senator Tester. Hopefully you are confirmed, and we will 
stay in touch. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
    Senator Schatz. Thank you, Senator Tester. Senator 
Blumenthal, it is good to see you.

             STATEMENT OF HON. RICHARD BLUMENTHAL, 
                 U.S. SENATOR FROM CONNECTICUT

    Senator Blumenthal. Thank you, Senator Schatz, Mr. 
Chairman. Good to see everyone there, and thanks for letting me 
participate remotely in this way. Mr. Cravins, I share your 
passion for support for minority owned businesses, and thank 
you to Ms. Feliz as well, to your commitment to this cause.
    In Connecticut, what we have seen during the pandemic, as 
in many, many other parts of the country, I am sure my 
colleagues have said it, is the impact has fallen 
disproportionately on minority owned businesses, the hardship 
and heartbreak has particularly impacted them.
    And I wonder whether there is any light you can shed on not 
only the need for capital, but also for technical assistance at 
this critical time. Because as you have observed just now, 
technology permits us to participate remotely in this hearing.
    There are lots of ways that technology can aid or in other 
ways impede development of minority businesses. So technical 
assistance becomes very, very important. Wonder if you could 
comment.
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you, Senator Blumenthal, and thank you 
so much for the question. I am speaking from my lens at the 
National Urban League, where I have had an opportunity to see 
firsthand how the pandemic has disproportionately affected 
businesses of color.
    What we know is that minority owned businesses were more 
likely to see decreased revenue during the pandemic and to 
experience a greater drop in employment than white owned 
businesses.
    Black owned businesses closed at twice the rate that white 
owned businesses closed or their non-minority counterparts. And 
to your point, those businesses, and that is why I think the 
MBDA was codified, need help and they need assistance. And to 
your question about technical assistance, I would say that I 
think the MBDA through its current business centers, have been 
providing that technical assistance.
    If I am confirmed, first day on the job, we are going to 
review those agencies, those business centers, and we are going 
to see if there are any gaps, any challenges, and I am going to 
have an opportunity to see firsthand how that work is being 
done. If we are fully funded, we are going to expand on that 
work according to the Infrastructure Act, the bill that you all 
passed.
    We are going to build rural centers, we are going to build 
regional centers, and that is going to help with the technical 
assistance. And so, Senator, I am--again, if we have the 
opportunity to, if I have the opportunity to be confirmed, and 
we can fully fund the agency, I think we can address those 
issues.
    We want to--I want to make sure, Senator, that when the 
next recession or storm or whatever hiccup or challenge that a 
minority business owner faces, that he or she are in a better 
position to weather the storm. And what we found during COVID 
is that many of our minority business owners were just not in 
great conditions to weather the storm.
    Senator Blumenthal. Did you find during your experience at 
the Urban League that the Restaurant Revitalization Program had 
a beneficial effect for many small business restaurants? I 
found throughout Connecticut that restaurants survived and many 
of them are now thriving because of the Restaurant 
Revitalization Program, which unfortunately now has run out of 
money, and I am hoping will be replenished. Maybe you can give 
us your personal experience.
    Mr. Cravins. Senator, thank you for the question. Yes, I 
did find that based upon my personal experience, that programs 
like the help that we provided, the Federal Government provided 
to small businesses did in many instances help those businesses 
make it. As I said, those businesses started out with less to 
begin with. Many minority business owners don't have a nest 
egg.
    Many minority business owners, when the supply chains were 
hit, it really impacted minority businesses. Because when they 
raise their rates, it can lead to shuttering the doors. And so 
the programs that the Federal Government put in place to help 
those minority business owners, at least from my vantage point, 
I did see that it prevented many--it helped and assisted many 
of those business owners with staying alive, staying afloat.
    Senator Blumenthal. Thanks, Mr. Cravins. Ms. Feliz, I have 
a quick question for you. Are there changes that you anticipate 
making in your office, assuming you are confirmed?
    Ms. Feliz. Thank you for the question, Senator. I, you 
know, if confirmed, I look forward to learning about the 
processes in place at the Office of Legislative and 
Intergovernmental Affairs to ensure that there are timely and 
accurate responses to Congressional inquiries and oversight 
requests, and assessing those processes that exist, and then 
later making a determination if there are any that need 
improvement. But I am very excited to work with the extremely 
talented and dedicated public servants that are already at the 
Department.
    Senator Blumenthal. Thank you very much. Thanks very much, 
Mr. Chairman, to you and the staff for accommodating me in this 
way remotely. Thanks a lot.
    Senator Baldwin. Thank you, Senator Blumenthal. Next is 
Senator Hickenlooper.

             STATEMENT OF HON. JOHN HICKENLOOPER, 
                   U.S. SENATOR FROM COLORADO

    Senator Hickenlooper. Thank you, Madam Chair. Mr. Cravins, 
thank you for your service. Thank you both, Ms. Feliz as well, 
for your service and for being here today. Mr. Cravins, I 
applaud the minority business development agency's Enterprising 
Women of Color Initiative in support of the fastest growing 
population of entrepreneurs. If confirmed, how do you look at 
coordinating with the Small Business Administration's Women's 
Business Centers to help expand and support that initiative?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you so much for the question, Senator, 
and thank you for your leadership in this space as well, 
continued leadership. So as a former Staff Director of the 
Senate Small Business Committee, I am very, very familiar with 
the Small Business Administration and the wonderful work that 
they do there, and that Administrator Guzman has been doing 
since taking the role.
    One of the programs that I have seen grow and really mature 
and blossom is the Women's Business Center program. And so what 
I most--one of the things that excites me the most about this 
new role, if confirmed, is leveraging the skills and the 
products of the SBA into the MBDA.
    And the agencies are very different, but they complement 
each other very, very well. And so one of the mandates you put 
in this wonderful Act that you all created, this wonderful job 
description, as I called it, is you tell me, you mandate that I 
work across the Government to make sure that the minority 
business issues are being intentional and intentionally 
addressed. And so although the Women's Business Center program 
work for all women.
    The way I see myself working, is to make sure that women of 
color, that their interests are being sought after and seen 
after as well in that program. And so I want to do that with 
the SBA. I want to do that with the Department of 
Transportation, the Department of Defense. I want to be the 
voice for the minority businesses of this country.
    Senator Hickenlooper. Terrific. Good answer.
    Mr. Cravins. Thanks, Senator.
    Senator Hickenlooper. Ms. Feliz, and I am eager to make 
sure everyone is aware that you have your degree from the 
University of Denver, one of Colorado's proud assets. The 
Office of Space Commerce recently announced new director 
Richard DalBello.
    The Office is undertaking a truly critical process of 
developing an open architecture data repository, which 
basically is a fancy language for a data base, to catalog 
orbital debris and to enhance our awareness of what they call 
space situational awareness, but the geometry of where that 
debris is, where are the satellites, how do we make sure things 
don't run into each other.
    This data repository is going to help maintain the 
sustainable and safe operations of civil space missions. And 
Ms. Feliz, I guess what I would love to hear you talk about a 
little bit is, are you willing to or are you committed to 
making sure that we keep this committee informed of further 
Congressional action necessary to support the growth and 
mission of the Office of Space Commerce?
    It is relatively new, and I think in these early years we 
are going to need to have a close connection for conduit for 
information.
    Ms. Feliz. Thank you for your question, Senator. I 
understand how important the Office of Space Commerce is to you 
and other members of this committee. And if confirmed, I 
certainly look forward to learning more about the programs 
under the Office's jurisdiction and to keeping this committee 
and working with your office and members of your staff to keep 
you and this committee informed of any action needed to support 
this critical mission.
    Senator Hickenlooper. Great. Thank you. I appreciate it. It 
is going to be important. And then, Mr. Cravins, how does the 
MBDA interface with the SBA to ensure that minority business 
owners have the support and the assistance to overcome the 
obstacles that we know they face in terms of securing credit 
that all underserved communities have to deal with?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you, Senator. I think the best way we 
can interface with the SBA is to communicate well with the SBA. 
As you know, the SBA has lending programs. The MBDA does not.
    And so one role that the Undersecretary and the team have 
confirmed could work on is to making sure that the SBA programs 
are hitting their marks, that their lending programs are 
hitting their marks, and that minority business entrepreneurs 
are having an opportunity to participate in those programs.
    As you know, the SBA has contracting goals as well. And so 
I see a big role for an Undersecretary of Minority Business to 
make sure those goals, that minority businesses are 
participating in those goals, and that we are meeting those 
goals as a Nation.
    The other thing I would suggest, Senator, is in the Act, 
that you have said that the Undersecretary can convene hearings 
on capital access, can do research on capital access, and those 
issues. And so I am hoping the agency will be funded so that we 
can do that work and we can build the agency to the agency I 
think you wanted it to be when you passed the Minority Business 
Development Act last year.
    Senator Hickenlooper. Absolutely. Thank you and thank you 
both. I think Administrator Guzman is going to be very well 
served by both of your tenure. Thank you. I yield back.

               STATEMENT OF HON. TAMMY BALDWIN, 
                  U.S. SENATOR FROM WISCONSIN

    Senator Baldwin. Thank you. I am now going to recognize 
myself for some questions. Mr. Cravins, Wisconsin is currently 
served by minority business development agencies located in 
Detroit and Chicago.
    We are working on changing that and hope to have good news 
from the MDBA soon in response to the announcement of 
anticipated new locations in six states. As Undersecretary, 
would you make opening and supporting new offices in states 
that do not have them like Wisconsin, a priority?
    Mr. Cravins. Absolutely, Senator. Thank you for your 
question and thank you for your support. Senator, I hope I am 
confirmed and in the job so I can come with you when we open 
that center in the great state of Wisconsin. But yes, ma'am, 
the Act is very clear.
    Congress has said they want MBDA to touch people and meet 
people where they are in all states. And so, as I have said 
before, I think through technology we can do that. But I am 
excited to see, that the men and women who are there now are 
working to bring a center, hopefully, to your home state.
    It is needed. And I look forward to working with you and 
your team to make sure it is successful.
    Senator Baldwin. Thank you. In an effort to promote 
economic resiliency among minority businesses, one of the 
requirements of the Minority Business Development Act is a 
study on alternative financing solutions.
    One financing solution that has been proven to increase the 
resiliency of small businesses is the use of employee 
ownership. Employee owned companies are twice as likely to 
survive an economic downturn, and during the pandemic, they 
were three times more likely to retain staff.
    As Undersecretary, will you ensure that employee ownership 
is considered among the alternative financing solutions studied 
by the MBDA?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you, Senator, for the question. And you 
know, last night I had an opportunity to read the Act again. 
This job description, as I call that, and I read it with my 
family, and I saw the section of the Act that you are talking 
about.
    It says Agency Study on Alternative Finance Solutions, and 
it says we must conduct a study on opportunities for providing 
alternative financing solutions to MBEs and submit to Congress 
and publish on the website of the agency.
    And so, Senator, if confirmed, looking very forward to 
conducting the study, following the mandates of the Act. And 
yes, ma'am, absolutely, we are going to look at alternative 
ways to get equity and financing to minority businesses and 
enterprises. As you know, it is the number one issue facing 
minority business enterprises.
    Senator Baldwin. Absolutely. One of the priority of the 
MBDA is to provide Federal assistance to minority businesses in 
the area of workforce development. As a strong supporter of 
Federal apprenticeship programs, I have been concerned that the 
number of black apprentices in Milwaukee has declined 
significantly during the pandemic.
    A further concern is the discrimination that black 
apprentices report encountering upon entering the job market 
after completion of their apprenticeship. I raised this issue 
with Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, and I am confident that he is 
prioritizing the issue at his agency.
    But given the mission of the MBDA, it seems like there 
might be an opportunity for a productive partnership there. 
Would you commit to working with Secretary Walsh to connect 
apprentices to minority businesses served by the MBDA?
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you for the question, Senator. And as an 
Urban League--an Urban Leaguer, as you know, apprenticeships is 
a big part of what we do. And you are right, I am concerned 
with the numbers that I am seeing across our great country.
    Yes, ma'am, I absolutely commit to working with Secretary 
Walsh. And I will go further, Senator, with other members of 
the Administration as well, and their Departments, DOD, the 
Department of Transportation, to work on apprenticeships across 
the Government.
    Senator Baldwin. Great. Thank you.
    Mr. Cravins. Thank you.
    Senator Baldwin. I have no further questions. I don't 
believe there are any other members that have further 
questions. So this concludes our hearing this morning. Thank 
you, Ms. Feliz and Mr. Cravins, for appearing before the 
Committee today and for your continued commitment to public 
service.
    Senators will have until Monday, July 19, at the close of 
business to submit questions for the record to the Committee. 
And the witnesses will have until the close of business on July 
26 to respond to those questions.
    Thank you, again, and that concludes today's hearing. And I 
am supposed to gavel out, but I am going to use a bottle 
instead.
    [Laughter.]
    Senator Baldwin. Thank you, again.
    [Whereupon, at 11:01 a.m., the hearing was adjourned.]

                            A P P E N D I X

[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]

   Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Kyrsten Sinema to 
                              Susie Feliz
    Relationships with State and Local Governments. The Commerce 
Department's Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs has the 
responsibility to maintain relationships with Congress, as well as 
state and local governments. This is especially important as the 
Department continues to implement the Broadband Equity, Access, and 
Deployment (BEAD) Program created in the Infrastructure Investment and 
Jobs Act, which will provide states and territories $42.45 billion over 
five years to expand their broadband connectivity.

    Question. If confirmed, how will you work with state and local 
governments in Arizona to ensure that underserved areas receive 
broadband access? Will you commit to working with state and local 
governments to provide appropriate and clear guidance related to 
broadband deployment?
    Answer. If confirmed, I commit to working in partnership with NTIA 
to ensure that state and local governments receive proper guidance and 
a fair and equitable allocation of broadband deployment funding.

    Relationships with Tribal Governments. The Assistant Secretary 
position also serves as the Department of Commerce's point of contact 
for tribal communities. Arizona is home to twenty-two federally 
recognized Native American tribes. The Department is implementing the 
Tribal Connectivity Program to enable more tribal communities, 
especially those in rural areas, to receive broadband access.

    Question. Will you also commit to working with Arizona's tribal 
communities to ensure that tribal governments receive proper guidance 
and a fair and equitable allocation of Tribal Connectivity Program 
funding?
    Answer. If confirmed, I commit to working in partnership with NTIA 
and Arizona's tribal communities to ensure that tribal governments 
receive proper guidance and a fair and equitable allocation of Tribal 
Connectivity Program funding.
                                 ______
                                 
    Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Jacky Rosen to 
                              Susie Feliz
    Tourism. Ms. Feliz, my Omnibus Travel and Tourism Act with Ranking 
Member Wicker--which we like to call the ``TourBus''--is a top priority 
for a broad coalition of bipartisan Senators and national organizations 
working to support the travel and tourism industry in the U.S. and the 
critically important workforce it employs. Nearly a dozen bipartisan 
Senators are co-sponsors of the TourBus, which passed out of this 
committee with unanimous support last year.
    The TourBus would, among other things, coordinate Federal travel 
and tourism policy across government by creating an assistant secretary 
position at the Department of Commerce, someone focused every single 
day on bolstering America's travel and tourism industry and 
coordinating a strategy across multiple Federal agencies--like the 
strategy I was glad to see the Department released last month and which 
my subcommittee held a hearing on earlier this week.

    Question. Ms. Feliz, I am thrilled that Secretary Raimondo strongly 
supports our bill, including its provision to create an Assistant 
Secretary for Travel and Tourism. She has committed, before this 
committee and in private conversations, to working with me to help make 
this happen. So, if confirmed, can you also commit to working with my 
office and relevant committees in the Senate AND the House to pass this 
bipartisan legislation to support the future of the travel and tourism 
industry and our global competitiveness in the international travel 
market?
    Answer. Yes, if confirmed, I commit to working with your staff and 
the relevant Congressional committees on this legislation.

    NTIA Coordination and Oversight. I was proud to be part of the 
group of Senators that helped draft key portions of the Bipartisan 
Infrastructure Law that Congress passed last year, including the 
infrastructure title--which included my Middle-Mile Broadband 
Deployment Act; NTIA's new Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment, or 
BEAD program; and key cybersecurity provisions. This $65 billion-dollar 
investment is crucial for communities in Nevada, including those living 
in our rural communities. The pandemic highlighted the challenges 
families faced without access to broadband. Left out the ability to 
access remote work, telehealth, or government services, millions of 
families suffered. That is why it's important that we make sure these 
dollars actually go out to our unserved and underserved communities.

    Question 1. Ms. Feliz, will you commit to working with my office to 
ensure NTIA is following the Congressional intent of the Middle-Mile 
Broadband grant program, the BEAD, and the cybersecurity provisions 
laid out in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law?
    Answer. Yes, if confirmed, I commit to working with your office to 
ensure NTIA is following Congressional intent behind the Middle-Mile 
Broadband grant program, the BEAD, and the cybersecurity provisions 
laid out in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    Question 2. Ms. Feliz, Nevada has a significant amount of Federal 
lands, including military bases that will require extensive 
coordination with DOD and the Bureau of Land Management. How will you 
ensure NTIA works closely with their Federal counterparts to minimize 
delays and unnecessary red-tape in deploying broadband in Nevada?
    Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure that NTIA works closely across 
the Administration, including with DOD and with land-management 
agencies, to minimize delays and unnecessary red-tape in deploying 
broadband in Nevada.
                                 ______
                                 
    Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Roger Wicker to 
                              Susie Feliz
    Question 1. Many of NOAA's Notices of Funding Opportunity for funds 
appropriated by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) include 
considerations of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Not 
only were none of those considerations included in the BIL funding, the 
layering on of additional requirements often discourages historically 
disadvantaged groups from applying for grants.

   Has NOAA examined how to make the grants application more 
        accessible, rather than layering on requirements that were not 
        included in the BIL? Did NOAA work with disadvantaged 
        communities in developing the NOFOs and grant applications? If 
        so, how was such feedback incorporated?

    Answer. I understand the importance of making sure diversity, 
equity, inclusion, and accessibility are considered in implementation 
of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). If confirmed, I will work 
with NOAA to ensure this focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and 
accessibility continues in implementing BIL funding.

    Question 2. In March, President Biden and European Commission 
President Ursula von der Leyen announced an agreement ``in principle'' 
to replace the invalidated EU-US Privacy Shield framework. Before the 
framework was struck down by the European Court of Justice in 2020, the 
Privacy Shield provided the legal basis for the transfer of data 
between the United States and the European Union. American companies, 
in particular small and medium-sized businesses, relied on the legal 
certainty provided by the Privacy Shield to conduct digital commerce 
across the Atlantic. In the years since, companies and consumers have 
lacked this certainty and have eagerly awaited a replacement framework.

   Ms. Feliz, last Congress, this committee held a hearing on 
        the invalidation of the EU-US Privacy Shield and its impact on 
        the continuity of transatlantic data flows between the EU and 
        the United States. In March, President Biden announced an 
        agreement in principle to replace the invalidated EU-US Privacy 
        Shield framework.

   The establishment of a durable and lasting data transfer 
        framework between the United States and the EU that provides 
        meaningful data protections to consumers, sustains the free 
        flow of information across the Atlantic, and encourages a 
        continued economic and strategic partnership with our European 
        allies is very important to this Committee. Would you commit to 
        keeping this Committee informed on any progress that is made to 
        finalize the agreement between the United States and Europe to 
        replace the Privacy Shield framework that was invalidated in 
        2020?

    Answer. Yes, if confirmed, I commit to keeping this Committee 
informed on any progress that is made to finalize the agreement between 
the United States and Europe to replace the Privacy Shield framework.

    Question 3. It has been brought to my attention that after almost 
three months, Department of Commerce officials have not yet submitted 
Secretary Gina Raimondo's QFR responses for the Commerce Committee's 
hearing held on April 27, 2022, titled, ``Department of Commerce Fiscal 
Year 2023 Budget Priorities.''

   In light of this situation, how will you plan to insure 
        timely QFR responses, and other required responses, to Congress 
        if confirmed to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce for 
        Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs?

    Answer. If confirmed, I commit to working with the bureaus and 
Department-level offices to appropriately prioritize responses to 
Congress, while at the same time ensuring that such responses are 
thoughtful and responsive. I will also examine the response-drafting 
process to determine whether there are areas for improvement or 
increased efficiency.
                                 ______
                                 
  Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    NOFO. In April, the MBDA published the NOFO for the Minority 
Colleges and Universities grant program which will provide funds to 
eligible institutions to develop entrepreneurship curriculum and 
training activities. The grant program, along with the MBDA, was 
authorized as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which 
specifically defined eligible institutions as ``an institution of 
higher education described in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of 
section 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
1067q(a))'', includes Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) and Asian 
American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions 
(AANAPISI) along with Historically Black Colleges and Universities 
(HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and 
Universities (TCUs), Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions (NHSIs) and 
Alaska Native Serving Institutions (ANSIs). However, in the NOFO, MBPA 
decided to exclude PBIs and AANAPISIs in their definition of eligible 
minority serving institutions.

    Question 1. Please describe the unique role and impact of PBIs and 
ANNAPISIs have in higher education.
    Answer. Minority Serving Institutions are an integral part of our 
U.S. higher education system. Predominantly Black Institutions were 
first recognized by Congress through the Predominantly Black 
Institution Act of 2007. As that law states, PBIs are essential and 
often mission-driven in providing postsecondary access and training to 
low-and middle-income black and other minority students. In addition, 
the institutional category of PBIs officially emerged in the Higher 
Education Opportunity Act of 2008, the bill that reauthorized the 
Higher Education Act of 1965. Unlike Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities, a group of institutions that initially came into being in 
1837, which are primarily four-year institutions, and 1890 land-grant 
institutions established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890; the vast 
majority of PBIs are public two-year colleges.
    PBIs are concentrated in the South, Midwest, and East, 
predominantly in urban areas. While most PBIs enroll a student body 
that is more than 50 percent black, some have a student body that is as 
much as 75 percent black. White and Latino students are usually the 
second largest racial group enrolled. Like other MSIs, PBIs serve a 
population of students who are mainly low-income and are often the 
first in their families to attend college.
    Additionally, PBIs account for 3 percent of all postsecondary 
institutions, yet enroll 9 percent of all Black college students. Given 
the changing demographics of the United States and the role of higher 
education in promoting upward mobility, PBIs play a critical role in 
their communities by providing access and credentials to an 
increasingly diverse student body.
    The role of Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-
Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs) and their contributions to the success 
of AAPI college students is also a vital one. AANAPISIs received their 
designation as an MSI in 2007 through the College Cost Reduction and 
Access Act, which expanded in 2008 under the Higher Education 
Opportunity Act. The AAPI population is composed of over 48 ethnicities 
that are diverse in socioeconomic class, language, religion, 
educational attainment, and migration history, among other attributes. 
AAPIs are among the fastest-growing minority groups in the United 
States, with a predicted population increase of 125 percent (to over 
40.1 million) by 2060. Given these increasing numbers and the complex, 
heterogeneous composition of the AAPI population, higher education 
institutions must have a deeper understanding of AAPI students and 
their needs.

    Question 2. Please describe how MBE benefit from MSIs, including 
PBIs and ANNAPISIs.
    Answer. MBEs benefit from MSIs, such as PBIs, AANAPISIs, and NHSIs, 
because MSIs serve and enrich their communities, not just their 
students. MBEs can access talent, skills, and technology support from 
MSIs. Specifically, MBEs can find employees or partners who look like 
them and understand their culture, heritage, and, potentially, 
linguistic abilities.
    Similarly, PBIs and AANAPISIs are helping to train and develop the 
next generation of Black, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific 
Islander (AA & NHPI), and other indigenous entrepreneurs, which would 
mean more established MBEs in our communities and decreasing the MBE to 
non-MBE gap in our economy.

    Question 3. If confirmed, will you continue to exclude PBIs and 
ANNAPISIs from MBDA programs and funding opportunities?
    Answer. If confirmed, I can commit to you that PBIs and AANAPISIs 
will be included in MBDA programs and funding opportunities.
    It is my understanding that the law requires AANAPISIs to be 
included within the groups eligible to receive MBDA's services. The 
language of Executive Order 11625 and 15 CFR part 1400 include Asian 
Pacific Americans, Alaskan Natives, and Asian Indians, and notes that 
MBDA serves these groups in its MBDA Business Center program and other 
programs. However, I know that AANAPISIs were not included in MBDA's 
recent Minority Colleges and Universities Notice of Funding Opportunity 
because the Notice is based on the congressional language and committee 
report identifying the specific colleges and universities that should 
be eligible to compete for the funding, which included Historically 
Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions 
(HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), Native Hawaiian 
Serving Institutions (NHSIs), and Alaska Native Serving Institutions 
(ANSIs).
    If confirmed, I would welcome the opportunity to work with your 
team to ensure that MBDA programs and funding opportunities are 
inclusive of more MSIs that serve students of color.
                                 ______
                                 
    Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Jacky Rosen to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    Entrepreneurial Development Assistance For Underrepresented 
Students. In Nevada, minority-owned businesses are an integral part of 
our communities, but unfortunately the pandemic posed a significant 
challenge to their continued success. It is vital that minority-owned 
businesses have access to adequate resources to foster growth, and 
Congress must begin these investments earlier, providing aid to 
startups and entrepreneurs. That's why I introduced the Minority 
Entrepreneurship Grant Program Act with Senator Tillis. This bipartisan 
legislation would establish a Minority Entrepreneurship Grant Program 
to award grants to Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and 
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to promote and 
increase opportunities for minority student business ownership and 
entrepreneurship.

    Question 1. Mr. Cravins, how important is it to extend outreach and 
mentorship to communities of color to jumpstart more entrepreneurship?
    Answer. It is of the utmost importance to extend outreach and 
mentorship to communities of color to promote and grow the idea of 
entrepreneurship. As you are likely aware, while growth rates in 
entrepreneurship are increasing compared to rates of participation in 
the labor market, there are systemic challenges for minority 
entrepreneurs. HBCUs and MSIs have historically played an integral role 
in supporting communities of color, giving graduates the tools and 
experience to enrich civic and economic life/engagement. HBCUs and MSIs 
are important engines of economic growth and public service and are 
proven pillars for intergenerational advancement. However, often, these 
institutions lag sufficient resourcing. I understand that MBDA 
currently plays a role in supporting HBCUs and MSIs through their 
investments and if confirmed, I will continue to connect with and 
engage HBCUs and MSIs across the country to see how we can further 
cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs.
    Outside of engagement with MSIs, MBDA also has several pilot 
programs that focus on the unique needs of minority entrepreneurs--such 
as the Enterprising Women of Color Initiative and the Formerly 
Incarcerated Entrepreneurship Program. In fact, the MBDA Act even calls 
for the development of Rural Business Centers to be created around the 
country in connection with MSIs; investments like this help jumpstart 
entrepreneurship for communities that are too often left behind. If 
confirmed, I would welcome the opportunity to partner with you and the 
Committee to discuss outreach and mentorship opportunities to help 
jumpstart minority entrepreneurship.

    Question 2. Mr. Cravins, under your leadership, how will the 
Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) address the needs of 
aspiring young student entrepreneurs at Minority Serving Institutions 
(MSIs)? And how will you support greater diversity in entrepreneurship?
    Answer. I think implementing the MBDA Act as you and your 
collegiate envisioned will be a crucial first step. I understand that 
MBDA's current grants to MSIs invest in the next generation of students 
and young entrepreneurs who will help lead the way. The current program 
provides funding for entrepreneurship programs, including curricula, 
courses, seminars, and replicable products and tools, that teach 
students how to develop businesses and commercialize products and 
services in the domestic and global marketplace. The MBDA Act calls for 
an expansion of this work through national coverage of MBDA's 
traditional Business Centers and implementation of the Rural Business 
Center program--which requires partnership with MSIs. I confirmed, 
commit to working with the team at MBDA and of course, you and the 
Committee, to understand other ways MBDA can support MSIs across the 
country.
                                 ______
                                 
   Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Kyrsten Sinema to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    Minority Business Development Agency Codification. The Minority 
Business Development Agency (MBDA) was codified under the provisions of 
the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The legislation also 
expands MBDA's national footprint by authorizing regional offices and 
creates the Undersecretary of Commerce for Minority Business 
Development.

    Question 1. If confirmed, how will you strengthen and expand the 
Minority Business Development Agency consistent with the IIJA?
    Answer. Through the MBDA Act--Congress provided valuable tools for 
strengthening and expanding the MBDA in a number of ways. First, the 
Act calls for MBDA to meet our communities where they are. If 
appropriated the full funding amount, MBDA will be able to implement 
the (1) Rural Business Center Program, (2) establish regional offices, 
and (3) invest in community-based organizations already fighting for 
MBEs and minority entrepreneurs. Second, the Act provides MBDA with the 
authority to coordinate across the Federal government on matters 
involving minority businesses. Lastly, the Act codifies and expands 
MBDA's current programs, including the flagship Business Centers and 
investments in Minority Serving Institutions through the Parren J. 
Mitchell Program.

    Question 2. How will MBDA determine where to locate regional 
offices? If confirmed, are there any specific criteria you intend to 
use?
    Answer. If confirmed, I will work with the career and political 
staff at MBDA to understand the work that is being done in this space. 
I will also consult with you and other members of the Committee on how 
best to establish a presence to meet the needs of your constituents.
    As you may be aware, MBDA previously ran and operated various 
regional offices throughout the Nation before being eliminated by a 
previous administration.
    Now, with the passage of the MBDA Act of 2021, it is my 
understanding the law requires the Agency to establish a regional 
office for each of the regions of the United States.
    Furthermore, according to the Act, the purpose of these regional 
offices will be to expand the reach of the Agency and enable the 
Federal Government to better serve the needs of minority business 
enterprises in the region. This would be accomplished by (1) working 
with MBDA Centers that are in that region; (2) working with resource 
and lending partners of other appropriate Federal agencies that are in 
that region; (3) seeking out opportunities to collaborate with regional 
public and private programs that focus on minority business 
enterprises; and (4) promoting business continuity and preparedness, 
among other priorities provided by the Act.
    If confirmed, I intend to fully carry out the law as envisioned by 
Congress.

    Small Business Opportunities on Tribal Lands. Tribal communities 
face unique challenges in starting new businesses. In northern Arizona, 
the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe continue to face repercussions from 
the closure of Navajo Generating Station (NGS) near Page, and the 
resulting closure of the Kayenta Mine that supplied NGS. The power 
plant and mine provided stable, good-paying jobs to many tribal 
members.

    Question. How can the MBDA provide assistance to tribal members 
looking to open their own small business in economically distressed 
communities?
    Answer. Thank you so much for this question. If confirmed, I will 
continue the work MBDA is doing through American Indian, Alaska Native, 
and Native Hawaiian (AIANNH) and MSI programs to further support Tribal 
and native business growth by addressing strategic initiatives such as 
(1) innovation and entrepreneurship, (2) strategic planning, and (3) 
transformative projects.
    I also believe that, if fully funded, the MBDA will implement a 
Rural Business Center Program that can and will assist Tribal and 
indigenous communities and entrepreneurs. These programs are operated 
by community-based organizations and/or MSIs that are engrained in the 
community and understand the unique challenges they face.
                                 ______
                                 
   Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Ray Ben Lujan to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    FY 2023 Budget. The Minority Business Development Agency serves a 
vital role uplifting minority owned and operated businesses, like the 
many that power New Mexico's economy. Last year, I was proud to work 
the Ranking Member and other members of this Committee to fully 
authorize the Minority Business Development Agency, making it permanent 
in statute for the first time in its 50-year history. I'm glad that Mr. 
Cravins has been nominated as the first undersecretary in the Agency's 
history, and am confident that the experience and expertise he brings 
to the Agency will allow them to expand and grow pursuant to the 
mandate in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
    The bipartisan infrastructure bill authorized $110 million to 
enable the Agency to fully meet its mission and reach every corner of 
our Nation to uplift and support minority owned and operated 
businesses. This includes establishing regional centers, and standing 
up a new program to establish Rural Business Centers at minority-
serving institutions. During the FY22 funding cycle, Congress 
appropriated only $55 million--half of what was authorized. As a 
result, the Agency did not have sufficient funding to stand up several 
vital programs established in the bipartisan infrastructure bill, 
including the Rural Business Center program.

    Question. Mr. Cravins, can you speak to the importance of MBDA 
receiving the full $110 million for Fiscal Year 2023, as requested by 
President Biden, to carry out its mission?
    Answer. As you know, the $110 million requested by President Biden 
for Fiscal Year 2023 is identical to the authorization level set by 
this Committee in the MBDA Act. The very same Act that created the 
Under Secretary position I am being considered for. This funding is 
profoundly important to implementing the MBDA Act and carrying out the 
mission of MBDA as envisioned by Congress. This mission includes (1) 
strengthening the administration of existing and new programs, (2) 
providing technical assistance and research opportunities to our 
business centers and enterprises, (3) hiring additional staff or 
otherwise increasing capacity to reestablish regional offices, and (4) 
establishing Rural Business Centers which you have helped champion. The 
Rural Business Centers would partner with Minority Serving Institutions 
around the country to support MBEs which is particularly close to my 
heart as a person born in rural Louisiana. These are just a few of the 
tenants of the MBDA Act that are critical to MBDA's ability to support 
communities around this country and are contingent on funding.
                                 ______
                                 
  Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Raphael Warnock to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    MBDI. Minority and community development financial institutions are 
time-honored institutional forms. Only 2.6 percent of insured 
institutions are currently designated as Minority Deposit Institutions 
(MDIs). Since 2014, the number of MDIs has decreased across the United 
States from 175 to 142. MDI community banks have generally decreased 
since 2001 with only 20 currently in the United States, which is less 
than half of the number that existed in 2001.

    Question. What role do you see the Minority Business Development 
Agency in supporting MDIs? How will you partner with other Federal 
agencies to support MDIs going forward?
    Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to working with you and your 
staff on this very important issue and commit to engaging with the 
career and political staff at MBDA to discuss the importance of MDIs as 
they play a vital role in assisting minority and underserved 
communities and are resources to foster the economic viability of these 
communities.
    Today, access to capital continues to be the number one barrier for 
minority businesses. The MBDA Act gives MBDA the ability to coordinate 
across Federal agencies like the Department of Treasury on matters 
impacting MBEs. Minority depository institutions (MDIs) are federally 
insured depository institutions for which 51 percent or more of the 
voting stock is owned by minority individuals, and thus, are MBEs. Just 
as with all MBEs, the Agency will ensure that MDIs are represented in 
intergovernmental/agency discussions and prioritized to ensure their 
success and growth in an everchanging market and economy.

    Federal Suppliers. The U.S. Federal government is the largest 
purchaser of goods and services in the world. Federal government 
purchases can have a substantial impact on the success of small 
businesses. The current government target is that 5 percent of all 
procurement should go to small, disadvantaged businesses, a significant 
portion of which are minority-owned.

    Question. What role do you see the Minority Business Development 
Agency in encouraging a diverse base of Federal suppliers?
    Answer. It is my understanding that MBDA already plays a role in 
this space, specifically through the Business Center & Specialty Center 
Programs which provide technical assistance to MBEs seeking Federal 
contracts. The MBDA also funds a Federal Procurement Center which is 
located right here in Washington, D.C. The MBDA Act also provides MBDA 
with the authority to coordinate across the Federal government on 
matters involving MBEs, including Federal procurement. If confirmed, I 
commit to working with the team on this matter and leveraging the tools 
Congress provided MBDA through the MBDA Act. If fully funded, MBDA 
regional offices will allow the Agency to build and strengthen 
relationships with state and local officials and work to make MBEs more 
competitive for federally funded programs at the local level.
                                 ______
                                 
    Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Roger Wicker to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    Question 1. In June 2018, the MBDA awarded nearly $2 million in 
grants to four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 
These grants allowed HBCUs to increase their ability to compete for and 
receive Federal research and development funds, establish partnerships 
with Federal laboratories and other technology resources, increase STEM 
entrepreneurship, and compete for Federal contracts. At NOAA, for 
example, none of the agency's 19 cooperative institutes is at an HBCU.

   Mr. Cravins, I have been working with Federal agencies to 
        increase participation of HBCUs in Federal research programs. I 
        am particularly concerned with the fact that none of NOAA's 
        Cooperative Research institutes are located at an HBCU. The 
        MBDA has a history of working with HBCUs to increase their 
        ability to compete for Federal research and development funds.

   Will you commit to continue working with me to ensure that 
        Federal research agencies are working with HBCUs?

    Answer. Yes. Research on Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) is 
sorely lacking and HBCUs, as well as other Minority Serving 
Institutions (MSIs) can play an important role in working with Federal 
research agencies, including MBDA, in closing this gap. If confirmed, I 
look forward to working with you and your team on this issue.

    Question 2. The MBDA has previously worked with the National 
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to share knowledge and 
develop strategies to increase the number of minority businesses 
participating in NIST programs, services, and contracting 
opportunities. NIST's mission is to develop and promote measurements, 
standards, and technology to enhance productivity, facilitate trade, 
and improve the quality of life. NIST runs both the Manufacturing 
Extension Partnership Program (MEP), and the Manufacturing USA 
institutes.
    Mr. Cravins, what role do you see NIST and the Manufacturing 
Extension Partnership (MEP) network playing in supporting minority 
businesses? How can the MBDA help identify those small-to-mid sized 
minority businesses that could benefit from the MEP programs and 
services?
    Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to working with fellow 
Commerce bureaus on advancing MBE and minority entrepreneurs' 
interests. Through MBDA's existing programs, the Agency works with many 
MBEs, including those in manufacturing. MBDA also has a number of 
Specialty Centers focused on providing technical assistance to MBEs in 
advanced manufacturing.
                                 ______
                                 
  Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Marsha Blackburn to 
                          Donald Cravins, Jr.
    Question 1. The Covid-19 pandemic took a significant toll on small 
businesses across the country. Through no fault of their own, many of 
them did not survive and were forced to close. Fortunately, we have 
seen a resurgence, with many people shifting careers to take a step 
towards entrepreneurship.
    However, not all places are experiencing this. In low-income, rural 
areas, it is increasingly hard for entrepreneurs to get the support 
they need to get their businesses off the ground.

   How do you plan to ensure minority business owners in rural 
        America receive the help they need?

   How can Congress best support and reach entrepreneurs in 
        low-income areas?

    Answer. As I mentioned in my opening testimony, rural communities 
are very important to me as someone who grew up in rural south 
Louisiana. You are absolutely correct that lowincome communities were, 
and still are, disproportionately impacted by the economic toll of the 
pandemic and, in many ways, are precisely a community of entrepreneurs 
that MBDA is positioned to help uplift. The MBDA Act provides a clear 
framework for how this Committee expects MBDA to expand its presence in 
rural communities, which includes the creation of Rural Business 
Centers across the country by partnering with Minority Serving 
Institutions (MSI) as well as regional offices to provide direct 
assistance to areas that need tailored support to fit their community 
needs. If confirmed, I will work with you and your colleagues to secure 
the necessary funding and ultimately implement these important tenants 
of the MBDA Act.
    Finally, I plan to listen. I would like to hear directly from rural 
communities about what more MBDA can be doing to support them, hear 
from MBDA career staff about what they think should be done, hear from 
you and your colleagues about what more MBDA can do to make itself more 
accessible to communities.
    To best serve lowincome entrepreneurs, I implore Congress to engage 
with the MBDA to provide much needed resources and support to their 
local MBEs, MSIs, and MBCs, and also request appropriations funding 
that aligns with the MBDA Act's authorization.

                                  [all]