Denise Carter

Denise L. Carter is an American government official serving as the principal deputy chief operating officer for Student Aid in the United States Department of Education. She served as the acting United States secretary of education from January 20, 2025, until March 3, 2025.

Career Carter served in the United States Department of Health and Human Services in multiple roles, including as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Resources. She served as Acting Chief Operating Officer for Student Aid from July 2024 until April 2025. and was succeeded by Linda McMahon on March 3, 2025, following her confirmation by Congress.

Carter retired from the Department of Education on April 2, 2025.