Secretary of State John Kerry will make his first major public address on Wednesday, February 20, at the University of Virginia – founded by Thomas Jefferson, America’s first Secretary of State.

Ahead of his first overseas trip, Secretary Kerry will speak directly to the American people about the value of President Obama’s investments in a strong foreign policy. In particular, Secretary Kerry will discuss how a relatively small investment in our foreign policy and diplomatic efforts results in a big return for America’s economy and security, and that American businesses and citizens have a stake in the ongoing debate about our nation’s budget priorities.

Secretary Kerry’s remarks in Charlottesville, Virginia, will be the first in a series of domestic addresses he plans to deliver as Secretary to report to the American people about his discussions abroad and their impact back home.

The speech will take place at 11 a.m. in Old Cabell Hall on the historic Grounds of the University of Virginia campus. Members of the university community will attend the ticketed event. It will also be open to credentialed reporters, for more information please contact Anthony de Bruyn at the University of Virginia Communications office by emailing apd5b@eservices.virginia.edu.