doi:10.7916/n96h-m950Oral history interview with Michelle D. Gavin, 2020Gavin, Michelle Doral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesHIV infections--PreventionUnited States Foreign relations BotswanaGavin, Michelle DObama, BarackNational Security Council (U.S.)Michelle Gavin reflects on her contributions to the Africa policy of the Barack Obama presidency, first as the senior director for African affairs on the National Security Council from 2009 to 2011, and then as ambassador to Botswana from 2011 to 2014. Gavin focuses on President Obama's continental reception, and the significance of the election of an African American with single-generational ties to Africa on bilateral relationships and perceptions of the United States. Gavin provides details about several important projects with which she was closely involved, including the 2010 launch of the Young Africa Leaders Initiative, efforts to enhance the bilateral economic relationship in Botswana, and the development of the largest HIV prevention study ever undertaken. Gavin also discusses the importance of racial and gender diversity among the U.S. diplomatic service, and shares her experience raising a young family while serving in the White House and as a U.S. ambassador