Today, the United States Senate confirmed Maria Contreras-Sweet as the new administrator of the Small Business Administration, making her the latest addition to the President’s cabinet. Republicans and Democrats praised the nomination, confirming her in a voice vote.

Contreras-Sweet founded ProAmérica Bank, which specializes in small-business loans in southern California, and Fortius Holdings, a venture capital firm. In 1999, she became secretary of the California Business, Transportation and Housing Agency. She was the first Latina to hold a Cabinet position in California.

In her confirmation hearing, Contreras-Sweet pledged to use the opportunity to “make sure the Small Business Administration is an even more significant force in expanding opportunities for all Americans, ensuring the economic strength of our country and the global economy.”

Said President Obama in a statement, “the American people will have a fierce champion who understands what it means to start a small business, and who has a proven track record of helping other small businesses succeed.”