doi:10.7916/xdpf-1543Oral history interview with Lauren S. Vrazilek, 2021Vrazilek, Laurenoral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesFamilies of military personnel--Services for--United StatesDigital media--Political aspects--United StatesVrazilek, LaurenObama, BarackObama, Michelle, 1964-United States. Office of the First LadyLauren Vrazilek recounts her experiences within the Obama administration as the first lady's deputy assistant director of correspondence from 2011 to 2014, director of correspondence and associate director of digital engagement from 2014 to 2015, and deputy press secretary from 2015 to 2017. Vrazilek focuses on her role as deputy press secretary for the first lady, outlining her work on the Joining Forces and Reach Higher initiatives, which supported military family members and inspiring students to complete higher education respectively. Vrazilek discusses the correspondence and communications teams' efforts to harness new forms of media including social media and viral moments. Vrazilek recounts how her experience in the administration gave her a sense of Obama's relatability to the American public. Also discussed are Vrazilek's time as a White House intern in 2010, state dinners, the lifting of the photo ban in the White House, the leadership of Howli Ledbetter and Tina Tchen, and the diverse staff in the East Wing.