Last Monday night, forty-four years after the people of Delaware first sent me to the United States Senate, I presided over a Senate vote for one of the last times.

As Vice President of the United States and president of the Senate, I served as the presiding officer as the Senate moved forward on the 21st Century Cures Act, a bill that will harness America’s best minds in science, medicine, and technology to tackle the biggest health challenges of our time.

This bill will help us combat the heroin and prescription opioid epidemic ripping apart families and communities. It invests in programs to improve mental health treatment and suicide prevention. It will provide resources for President Obama’s BRAIN and Precision Medicine initiatives, so that our world-class researchers can figure out how to better prevent, treat, and eventually cure Alzheimer's, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injuries.

And this is the part that's personal for me and for millions of Americans: The 21st Century Cures Act invests $1.8 billion to help us end cancer as we know it. For over a year, I've been leading our National Cancer Moonshot to fundamentally change the culture of our fight against cancer and inject a sense of urgency into it. This bill goes a long way to help us -- investing in promising new therapies, enhancing prevention and detection efforts in every community regardless of zip code, and bringing us closer to the day when there are vaccines for all kinds of cancer, just as we have them for measles or mumps.

God willing, this bill will save lives.

While I was presiding in the Senate, my colleagues from both sides of the aisle renamed the section of this bill on cancer research for my son, Beau, who lost his battle with brain cancer, but like countless Americans who lost their own battles, inspires us to do everything we can for the loved ones we can save. My thanks goes out to the bipartisan leadership -- Democrats and Republicans in the House and the Senate -- who ensured that this important bill became law. Without this true bipartisan support, this piece of legislation, which will help millions of Americans, would not have been possible.

Today, President Obama will sign the 21st Century Cures Act into law. One last time in our Administration, I will stand right by him at a signing ceremony -- proud of our country, and proud of the work we’ve done to give people hope.

I hope you'll join me.

Thanks,

Joe

There are nearly half a million open tech jobs in the United States today, and that number is projected to more than double within the next four years. These jobs pay 50 percent more than the average private sector job.

That's why President Obama and Vice President Biden launched the TechHire initiative in 2015 to give more Americans access to accelerated tech training that leads to a well-paying tech job -- no matter what their zip code. Four thousand workers have already been trained and employed across the country, and communities and businesses have committed to training and placing an additional 35,000 people in the next few years. 

Today, Vice President Biden headed to the LaunchCode Mentor Center in St. Louis, Missouri -- one of the first TechHire communities -- to speak with employees and employers who have benefitted from this collaborative approach that trains Americans for the jobs of the future. 

Here's how it works: A qualified candidate applies for dozens of tech jobs without ever getting an interview. She has the skills, the motivation, and the self-discipline to learn how to code herself. But because she didn't go to college, she doesn’t get the job.

But then she shows up to at LaunchCode, a not-for-profit that finds talented people across St. Louis and gives them the training and credibility for the tech jobs that employers are desperately seeking to fill. LaunchCode goes to bat for her and connects her with a position at a company like MasterCard. She gets hired on as an apprentice. She proves herself and gets hired fulltime. She becomes a systems engineer with a good-paying salary. She gets promoted.

That's good for her. It's good for the company.

In the last year, numerous companies -- including major St. Louis employers like Mastercard, Boeing, and Express Scripts -- have been hiring more candidates with non-traditional backgrounds. In the LaunchCode program alone, 310 people have been placed in apprenticeships with a 90 percent hiring rate into full time positions. These employees make salaries that are two times higher than their previous jobs. Sixty percent of these folks were previously unemployed, and 25 percent lack a college degree.

And at LaunchCode, the Vice President announced that The Iron Yard, Code Fellows, and Operation HOPE will launch a Tech Opportunity Fund, which will offer $100 million in full-tuition scholarships to women and minorities who are underrepresented in the tech workforce. The fund is launching with $45 million in committed funding so far. Through partnerships with city-level government bodies and civic organizations, the fund will also assist scholarship recipients by addressing needs such as affordable housing, financial literacy, counseling and transportation as needed.  

But we're not going to stop here. We will be announcing new commitments from mayors, governors, businesses, traditional and non-traditional training programs, and others to the TechHire initiative this fall. If you're not involved yet, you can get involved by making a commitment here.

So make sure tune in to hear Vice President Biden talk about training Americans for the jobs of the future.

This week, President Obama wrote back to “Little Miss Flint” with some big news: He’s coming to town. On Wednesday, May 4th, the President will travel to Flint, Michigan where he will hear first-hand from Flint residents like Mari about the public health crisis, receive an in-person briefing on the federal efforts in place to help respond to the needs of the people of Flint, and speak directly with members of the Flint community.

Read Mari’s letter to President Obama, and then check out his reply:

Mari’s letter to President Obama:
 

Mr. President,

Hello my name is Mari Copeny and I’m 8 years old, I live in Flint, Michigan and I’m more commonly known around town as “Little Miss Flint”. I am one of the children that is effected by this water, and I’ve been doing my best to march in protest and to speak out for all the kids that live here in Flint. This Thursday I will be riding a bus to Washington, D.C. to watch the congressional hearings of our Governor Rick Snyder. I know this is probably an odd request but I would love for a chance to meet you or your wife. My mom said chances are you will be too busy with more important things, but there is a lot of people coming on these buses and even just a meeting from you or your wife would really lift people’s spirits. Thank you for all that do for our country. I look forward to being able to come to Washington and to be able to see Gov. Snyder in person and to be able to be in the city where you live.

Thank You

Mari Copeny

President Obama’s reply to Mari:

The White House

Washington

April 24, 2016

Amariyanna Copeny

Flint, Michigan

Dear Mari: Thank you for writing to me. You’re right that Presidents are often busy, but the truth is, in America, there is no more important title than citizen. And I am so proud of you for using your voice to speak out on behalf of the children of Flint.

That’s why I want you to be the first to know that I’m coming to visit Flint on May 4th. I want to make sure people like you and your family are receiving the help you need and deserve. Like you, I’ll use my voice to call for change and help lift up your community.

Letters from kids like you are what make me so optimistic for the future. I hope to meet you next week, “Little Miss Flint.”

Sincerely,

Barack Obama

Among the 2.2 million people incarcerated in state and federal prisons, more than half are parents of children below the age of 18.

It’s a staggering statistic, with real consequences for the children who live with a parent in prison – many of whom are serving out a punishment that does not fit their crime.

When 11-year-old Madison’s dad was sent to prison, Madison looked for books to help her cope with her sadness and disappointment. When she couldn’t find any that could help her, she wrote her own.

Now, her father is set to be released this August. Madison’s greatest worry is that he won’t have the support he needs to find a job, a home, and a new life that will give them both an opportunity to see each other. So she wrote President Obama to see if there’s anything he can do to help ensure her father and other convicted felons get that support – and President Obama responded.

Read their letters below.

President Barack Obama

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20500

February 5, 2016

Dear President Obama,

My name is Madison [...] and I'm 11 years old. I live in Crofton, Maryland. I'm writing to you about my dad. He's an inmate at the Patuxent Institute in Jessup, MD. He gets release in August 2016. When he gets out I want him to have a great job, a house, and to see me more often. My biggest wish is for him to be very successful and never go to jail again. It's really hard for convicted felons to get a great job and find the support they need to be successful. As President of the United States of America, is there anything you can do to make it easier for my dad to get a job and find the support he needs?

As an 11 year old, I thought I didn't have a voice, but I realized I did. When he went to jail I was sad and disappointed. My mom and I looked for books to help me through this difficult time. We couldn't find anything to help me. So, on my own, I decided to write a book to help every kid in the world that has a parent in jail. I wanted other kids to know they're not alone in their situation. On December 1, 2015, I launched my book [...] It's a best seller on Amazon.

If an 11 year old can find the courage to write a book about one of the most embarrassing situations in her life time, then I know you can do something as the President of the United States of America to help support all convicted felons when they get out of jail.

I hope you can find 20 minutes in your day to read my book. Please share it with Mrs. Obama, Malia, and Natasha.

"I will continue to love my daddy and pursue my dreams. His mistakes won't stop me from being who I'm meant to be. I promise to not judge him by his mistakes, but by the size of his heart."

Sincerely,

Madison

CC

Valerie Jarrett

Josh Earnest

The White House

Washington

March 27, 2016

Dear Madison,

Thank you for sharing your story with me. Your letter and book reached my desk, and it's clear you care a lot about your dad and about other kids going through tough situations like yours.

I admire your determination to make sure your dad has the support and resources he needs to put his life back on track and be there for you, and I want you to know that my Administration is working to help people like him rebuild their lives after having made a mistake. Through the Federal Interagency Reentry Council, we are pushing to improve rehabilitation programs, like job training and drug counseling, and to advance reentry programs that would help with things like housing, education, and healthcare. This is an issue that means a lot to me too, and I will keep doing everything I can to make sure all our people have the opportunity to earn a second chance.

Again, thank you for reaching out to me. You're right that your voice is important, and I trust you will keep working hard to pursue your dreams. I want you to hold on to the optimism and resolve that have brought you this far, and I am confident you will continue to do great things.

Your friend,

Barack Obama

As part of Women’s History Month and in the lead up to the United State of Women Summit, the White House is highlighting stories of women and girls who have been impacted by the criminal justice system, including children of incarcerated parents.

The President read Madison’s letter as one of the 10 letters that he receives each day. Inspired by her story, the White House Council on Women and Girls invited Madison today to join Senior Advisor to the President Valerie Jarrett and U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch at the White House Convening on Women and the Criminal Justice System.

The President believes America is a nation of second chances. That’s why he has commuted the prison sentences of 248 people, including 61 individuals announced today, most of whom are low-level drug offenders whose sentences would have been shorter if they were convicted under today’s laws. White House Counsel Neil Eggleston explains here.

When President Obama first took office, he asked his staff to send him 10 letters a day. Ten letters that reflect Americans from every corner of the country with every background — the stories, cares, and concerns of the citizens of this country.

He’s continued that practice every day since, reading, responding, and visiting the homes and hometowns of letter writers who have inspired him and his policies. And on this last day of Black History Month and the second anniversary of his My Brother’s Keeper initiative, the President is sharing his response to Gretchen Stewart from Florida.

In the letter below, Gretchen, a public school teacher and mother of two, articulates her struggle—one that resonates with many people across the country.

Read Gretchen Stewart’s letter to President Obama:

Dear President Obama,

Everyday, I get about 4–5 hours of sleep. My day starts at 4:45 am when I wake up to read my Bible for a few moments. Then, I make lunch for my 9 year old with Autism. I set the clothes out for my other 9 year old with Down Syndrome. As Black boys in America with special needs, the outcomes say they have a slim to none chance to graduate high school, a good chance of being imprisoned, and a great chance of having a very poor, perhaps homeless, adult quality of life. I don’t focus on it, but it remains the fact for most.

After I finish packing lunches, I sneak into our room (we share a 10x11 room in my grandmothers house) and grab my clothes. I pull my tired little guy from a bed on the floor and dress him in his sleep. I help him to the car, we back out at 5:55 am. I then drive 1 hour to drop him off at a Charter school that serves kids with Autism. I moved to Tampa, Florida for this school. There are so few quality choices for parents with kids with Autism that are the working poor. I am an American public school teacher. I teach 5th grade at a high poverty, nearly all Black, elementary school in Tampa. I work 12–14 hour days and bring work home. My income last week was $1,330.00 for 2 weeks. I hold 2 MAs and have been an award winning urban public education for 17 years. I cannot afford an apartment, let alone a house. I live check to check. People who sell guns make more money.

Teachers in the most challenging schools have very little resources. Last month I had a choice to make, overdraft my bank account or buy supplies for my students. I chose my students, and we ate less at home.

You said we are the most powerful nation in the world. That being true, the state of Education for MOST Americans is unacceptable. Loosing kids to gun violence is horrific, and so is allowing millions of American kids to go from our schools to our prisons. The stratification is growing, rapidly.

We need change for our teachers. Young people don’t what to be teachers out of college. They know teachers are paid terribly, they know it’s a very hard and sometimes even dangerous career. They are turned off in droves to what should be the highest held profession in our nation.

I’d vote you in again if I could. It’s been an honor to be an American while you have been in office. Before you go, please do all you can to improve the state of affairs for American teachers.

Most sincerely,

Gretchen Stewart

And here’s President Obama’s response to Gretchen Stewart:

Dear Gretchen,

I was very moved by your letter. I am who I am today only because I was raised by a strong mother who worked hard and sacrificed to make sure I got a good education. So the first thing I’d say is that your boys are very fortunate to have you.

The concerns you shared are ones I read in a lot of letters, and hear from a lot of folks I meet across the country. Here’s what I want you to know. Every single thing I do as President is aimed at making sure every child in America has the same opportunities this country gave me. A good education. Caring mentors who kept me on the straight and narrow. Safe places to learn and grow. I couldn’t agree more with you that we need to train and support more excellent teachers like you, and pay them what they truly deserve. We’ve got to do more to keep our kids safe from gun violence. We’ve got to do more to close the school-to-prison pipeline. We know that boys and young men of color face some of the toughest odds. That’s why I created the My Brother’s Keeper initiative to make sure that all of our children, no matter their background, have the chance to achieve their dreams.

These aren’t challenges we’ll solve overnight. But over the past seven years, we’ve made progress on creating jobs, making sure more Americans have health insurance, getting graduation rates up, and making sure underprivileged schools have better resources like high-speed internet. High school dropout rates are down, and more young people of color are going to college. We’ve taken action to reduce gun violence and make our communities safer — and I’ve repeatedly called on Congress to do more. And there’s real hope that we can get bipartisan criminal justice reform done this year.

Change takes time. But change is possible. I know how hard it is for so many Americans like you. But Americans like you also fill me with hope. Every day, you give your all to your children, and to your students — never giving up. You’re changing lives and making a difference in your community. That’s how this country has always moved forward. And I’ll keep spending every single day in this office and beyond working to make your life better, and to create a brighter future for your boys and for all of our children. That’s a promise.

Sincerely,

Barack Obama

When President Obama took office, he had a simple request for his staff: Send me ten letters a day. Ten letters that reflect Americans from every corner of the country, from every background -- the stories, cares, and concerns of the very people who elected him to the presidency.

He's continued that practice every day since, reading, responding, and visiting the homes and hometowns of letter writers who have inspired him and his policies. And today, as the President heads back to Springfield, Illinois where he began his "improbable quest" to the White House, we wanted to share one letter the President received from a young woman concerned about the state of our politics in America.

In May of last year, Katherine Wiykovics told the President, "I'm afraid." She feared that our politics had become so broken and so steeped in partisan rancor that the possibility of progress made together -- by red states and blue states -- was slipping from our grasp. "So I ask you: What can I do?" The President would respond with a handwritten note.

Read her letter, and the President's response, below.

March 25, 2015

Dear President Barack Obama:

I hope you and your family are doing well despite the trials and tribulations that are guaranteed to be brought on by the presidency. My name is Katherine Wiykovics. I am twenty-six years old and currently a graduate student at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Michigan, working on my Master's in Computer Science that I hope will lead to a PhD in Computer Science as well. Like many of the youth on campus, I like to play video games. I play probably too many games for my own good, mostly those that involve strategy or some sort of puzzle that I have to solve. I like trying to find solutions to problems, and I have a strong belief that with ambition, determination, intelligence, hard work, and courage in the face of adversity, anyone can make it to where they want to be. Not always in the matter they wish, and where they want to be may change along the way as I certainly didn't expect to go to graduate school when I was younger, but I can happen. Yet all the time, I am faced with a complicated problem that I cannot figure out how to solve, or where to begin.

Increasingly in this country, all over in our own ways, we are divided. You claimed years ago that there were no red states and blue states, but the fact of the matter is surveys have stated that a majority of parents of both Republican and Democratic parties would not be okay with their children marrying someone outside of their political opinions. This sort of thing troubles me greatly, because our policies are now dividing us as much as race or religion has in the past. How are we as Americans supposed to get anything done when compromise is such a dirty word? Compromise does not mean give in, it means to work together and it seems we the people are headed toward a horrid end if this does not stop. I'm afraid, Mr. President. I am one who is not swayed so easily by emotion in my politics, but in facts and the facts are that we cannot have a country divided and have a stable government.

So I ask you: What can I do? I want to do something beyond just signing some random online petition that always seems to get nowhere. I want a government that works, I don't want to worry about a shutdown anymore. I don't want to watch more and more people become disinterested in politics because nothing can be done to fix things. I want to see unafraid voices stand not for political but for reason. It is often said that those who play video games heavily do so because there is little agency in their own lives, that they play in order to feel like they can accomplish something. It is my reason, I can do so much more to save fake worlds, fake nations, than my own. Tell me, how can we begin to unite people in compromise? I mean, if we can't do it, that means I'm in trouble as my boyfriend is from a very Republican family, and I’m from a very Democratic one. My parents like him, but I don't know if his will like me.

Sincerely,

Ms. Katherine Rose Wiykovics

This is the President's response: 

Katherine --

Thanks for the letter. You seem like a wonderful young lady.

I know politics seem frustrating sometimes. But despite all the rancor you see on TV, people are making a difference everyday in every corner of the country. So find an issue care about, and volunteer -- you'll meet people that inspire you, and find that you too can make a difference.

And don't worry about political party when it comes to boyfriends; just make sure he's kind, loves kids, makes you laugh, and is honest!

Barack Obama

Despite every challenge, the progress made over the past seven years proves that the single most powerful word in our democracy is "we." As the President said in the State of the Union: 

"My fellow Americans, whatever you may believe, whether you prefer one party or no party, whether you supported my agenda or fought as hard as you could against it -- our collective futures depends on your willingness to uphold your duties as a citizen. To vote. To speak out. To stand up for others, especially the weak, especially the vulnerable, knowing that each of us is only here because somebody, somewhere, stood up for us. We need every American to stay active in our public life -- and not just during election time -- so that our public life reflects the goodness and the decency that I see in the American people every single day."

Find out how you can participate from the Small Business Administration; share your Small Business Saturday story on social media using #SmallBizSaturday and #ShopSmall, and check out how the White House and the Obama administration are celebrating below!

Enjoyed stopping by Upshur Street Books today. Celebrate Small Business Saturday by supporting a business near you. pic.twitter.com/udTcIhxtOC

— President Obama (@POTUS) November 28, 2015

On #SmallBizSaturday we celebrate entrepreneurs like Jolie, whose #smallbiz @Soaptopia is exporting to Japan pic.twitter.com/ntjagdttAP

— Maria ContrerasSweet (@MCS4Biz) November 28, 2015

.@wankelshardware has served NY-ers since 1890. VP Sean Wankel says 15 of 20 employees are refugees. #SmallBizSat pic.twitter.com/m0ujGQseMj

— Samantha Power (@AmbassadorPower) November 28, 2015

Getting ready for Small Business Saturday at Del Sol. #SmallBizSat #shopsmall pic.twitter.com/iKdGVegtdE

— Penny Pritzker (@PennyPritzker) November 28, 2015

Had a great lunch at @FranklinsBrwry, one of my favorite local establishments. Don’t forget to #DineSmall & #ShopSmall today!

— Tom Perez (@LaborSec) November 28, 2015

Small businesses are vital to local economies & many are near America's public lands. Support one before heading outdoors!SJ #SmallBizSat

— Sally Jewell (@SecretaryJewell) November 28, 2015

Celebrating #SmallBizSaturday at Shimon's Service Station in Brookline, MA. Falling gas prices 3 years running! pic.twitter.com/x8xRRM7vTh

— Ernest Moniz (@ErnestMoniz) November 28, 2015

Went book shopping at @57thstreetbooks and got my haircut at University barber shop for #SmallBizSaturday #shopsmall

— Arne Duncan (@arneduncan) November 28, 2015

Did you know that we buy products from small businesses? Including parts used on our Orion spacecraft. #SmallBizSat https://t.co/1v3QwWRJ74

— NASA (@NASA) November 28, 2015

Enjoyed a delicious cup of tea at Sip & Savor! #SmallBizSat #DineSmall pic.twitter.com/jYVW0zNCWT

— Valerie Jarrett (@vj44) November 28, 2015

White House Counsel Neil Eggleston visits Tim Albrecht, owner of Consider It Done in Bethesda, Maryland. #ShopSmall pic.twitter.com/FLVypPcquc

— White House Live (@WHLive) November 28, 2015

Happy #SmallBizSat! Our Ast Administrator Jerome Fletcher visited his local donut shop. Where will you shop small? pic.twitter.com/yDyLIxqtKT

— GSA (@USGSA) November 28, 2015

#SmallBizSat outing! Deputy Admin Doug Kramer dining small w/ @MayorSlyJames @TheSundryKC pic.twitter.com/n0BNqBA201

— SBA (@SBAgov) November 28, 2015

Great dinner at Vin & Eddie's in Abington, MA on #SmallBizSaturday! Love Prime Rib Saturday! pic.twitter.com/Em5ypAMcjY

— David Simas (@Simas44) November 29, 2015

You still have time for #SmallBizSaturday! One of my staffers joined #AL Rep Clarke to #shopsmall in @City_of_Mobile pic.twitter.com/0TpRCRjiaw

— Jerry Abramson (@Abramson44) November 29, 2015

Supporting our small business community is essential for our economy. Also delicious for our tummies! #smallbizsat pic.twitter.com/05iYIuORth

— Diana Doukas (@Diana44) November 28, 2015

A very delicious way to celebrate #SmallBizSaturday at @mannysdeli, a family-owned Chicago institution since 1942. pic.twitter.com/dNjHtsmyMR

— Kori Schulman (@ks44) November 28, 2015

Enjoyed some dino-mite bbq at @Dinosaur_BBQ in honor of Small Business Saturday. #DineSmall pic.twitter.com/YwQWGeGrKc

— Eric Schultz (@Schultz44) November 28, 2015

Happy #SmallBizSaturday from @BunchofGrapesBk on the Vineyard! And, #GoBlue! pic.twitter.com/CnyoFBOrBL

— Broderick Johnson (@Broderick44) November 28, 2015

Team OPE is out celebrating #SmallBizSat. Here's Alex and friends at Lehigh Diner in Henrietta, NY! #DineSmall pic.twitter.com/Oqt5weh4Hm

— Paulette Aniskoff (@PAniskoff44) November 28, 2015

Celebrating #SmallBizSaturday (& my general love of brunch) at Orphan Breakfast House in East Sacramento #DineSmall pic.twitter.com/xB7WJMcA2W

— Brandi Hoffine (@Hoffine44) November 28, 2015

Finding great gifts @TheBlueHouseMD in Bethesda today! #SmallBizSat pic.twitter.com/IlGzI3MSPt

— Nani Coloretti (@HUDDepSec) November 28, 2015

"With respect to refugees seeking to resettle here, it is our view that we can admit the most vulnerable of these refugees into this country safely as long as we do not compromise the already established protections."

Through this process, we forward American values of "openness and inclusive" by helping protect the most vulnerable Syrians.

"First, we consider only the most vulnerable -- particularly survivors of violence and torture, those with severe medical conditions, and women and children -- for potential admittance to the U.S."

But we're also working to ensure the safety of Americans at home. According to Secretaries Napolitano and Chertoff, refugees undergo a more rigorous screening process than anyone else we allow into the U.S.

"The process for any refugee seeking entry to the United States requires the highest level of scrutiny from a law enforcement and national security perspective. The process takes place while the refugees are still overseas, and it is lengthy and deliberate."

Here's how the two former Homeland Security Secretaries walk us step-by-step through that process:

"Once a candidate is selected they are subjected to biographic and biometric security reviews based on the latest intelligence from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the National Counterterrorism Center, the FBI's Terrorist Screening Center, the Department of State, and the Department of Defense. If they pass these national security checks, they will then be personally interviewed by specially trained DHS personnel to ensure they are qualified for admittance."

After that, the candidates are subjected to further screening right up to an interview at the border before they enter the U.S.

"They are then subjected to recurrent vetting up to the final point of departure and a final interview at the border before being admitted into the U.S."

That full process is why Secretaries Napolitano and Chertoff concluded that we can both welcome Syrian refugees and ensure our safety:

"The process that is currently in place is thorough and robust and, so long as it is fully implemented and not diluted, it will allow us to safely admit the most vulnerable refugees while protecting the American people."

Learn more about how we can welcome refugees while ensuring our safety. 

Read the full letter from the two former secretaries of the Department of Homeland Security: 

President Obama is committed to making this administration the most open and participatory in history – and that’s why we want to hear from you. What issues would like to talk about? Send us your suggestions for future Office Hours topics and you might be invited to join us for a special Q&A online!

Office Hours with Valerie Jarrett builds upon our efforts to use a range of tools and platforms to meet people where they are and engage them in conversations about how to move our country forward – from hosting online Q&As to responding to your petitions.

President Obama and officials across the White House are turning to social media to engage directly with the American people. Earlier this week, the President joined Facebook as a place to have “real conversations about the most important issues facing our country” and to spark a conversation about climate change.

Take a look at some recent online engagement highlights and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

President Obama answers your questions on Twitter about climate change following a hurricane preparedness briefing in Miami.

Ready to answer your questions on climate change. Let's do this! #AskPOTUS pic.twitter.com/5KrIb5jL6S

— President Obama (@POTUS) May 28, 2015

Diana Doukas, Director of the White House Business Council, took questions on #StartupDay about how we're making it easier to start a business in America.

Hey sauce boss! @POTUS’s Pay As You Earn helps entrepreneurs focus on big ideas, not loans: https://t.co/4dLcyhiorg https://t.co/h41N8kkUE5

— Diana Doukas (@Diana44) August 19, 2015

Ben Rhodes, Deputy National Security Advisor, answered questions about the historic deal to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon following a live interview with President Obama on the topic.

That Iran is ever allowed to get a nuclear weapon under deal. Permanent prohibition on nuclear weapons program https://t.co/otVUdmlAse

— The Iran Deal (@TheIranDeal) August 28, 2015

As the internet celebrated “Back to the Future Day” on October 21, 2015 – the day Marty McFly traveled to the future in the movie Back to the Future Part II – the White House joined the fun by hosting a series of conversations about topics like understanding the human brain and time travel.

Pete Souza, Chief Official White House Photographer, documents the Presidency in photos and shares a peek behind the scenes on his Instagram account, @PeteSouza. He also regularly answers questions from followers and photo enthusiasts.

I want to talk to you straight for a second.

Today, I'm joining FLOTUS -- yes, THE First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama -- to kick off #BetterMakeRoom, a campaign for her Reach Higher initiative.

Because, listen up adults, kids these days are ready to make their debut and make their mark on the world.

I mean, let's be honest, at 17 I wasn't sure what I wanted to do. But I knew I wanted to do something creative, I wanted to make people laugh. Tidewater Community College gave me the boost I needed to put me on a path to where I am today.

Now don't just sit back. There's something every one of you can do -- right now -- to help make education a reality for more people. Here's what that is:

Show your support for young folks on your social media channels using #BetterMakeRoom. Tell them what you wish someone would have told you when you were 14. Consider it a pep talk in 140 characters. Tell them to go visit BetterMakeRoom.org and let them know their voice should be heard.

This generation is eager to make their own mark on the world and we need to make sure they get the education they need to help them do just that.

And together, we can tell the world: You better make room. Because these young people are going to do big things.

Let's inspire these kids to dream even bigger, reach even higher.

Watch out world!

Jay Pharoah

At the Global Citizens Festival in September, the First Lady launched a campaign to spread awareness of the 62 million girls worldwide who are not in school. Join the First Lady, Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Janelle Monae and so many others by tweeting or Instagraming a photo of yourself using the hashtag #62MillionGirls and telling the world what you learned in school: “In school, I learned ____. #62MillionGirls don’t have that chance.” Visit 62milliongirls.com to see the yearbook, download the Peace Corps toolkit, and learn all the ways that you and your friends can get involved in Let Girls Learn.

So, subscribe to the White House on Spotify, grab your friends and kick off International Day of the Girl like the First Lady.

The First Lady's Day of the Girl Playlist

Here's the full list of tracks:

1. Run the World  (Girls) – Beyoncé
2. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Diana Ross
3. Doubt – May J. Blige
4. When The Day Comes – Nico & Vinz
5. Girl on Fire – Alicia Keys
6. On The Sunny Side Of The Street—Billie Holliday
7. A Little Party Never Killed Nobody (All We Got) – Fergie
8. Confident – Demi Lovato
9. Bravo – Ledisi
10. No Scrubs – TLC
11. Survivor – Destiny’s Child
12. Defying Gravity – Kristin Chenoweth, Idina Menzel
13. Bang, Bang – Jessie J, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj
14. Black Gold – Esperanza Spalding
15. Doo Wop (That Thing) – Lauryn Hill
16. Back to Basics - From "Pitch Perfect 2" Soundtrack – The Barden Bellas
17. Given Em What They Love – Janelle Monáe feat. Prince
18. My Shot – Hamilton (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
19. And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going – Jennifer Hudson
20. Respect – Aretha Franklin

Kick off #DayOfTheGirl FLOTUS style! Check out the First Lady’s @Spotify playlist→ http://t.co/Gi5WyFiJM4 pic.twitter.com/yUALTfeqef

— First Lady- Archived (@FLOTUS44) October 11, 2015

The First Lady shared her first-ever @Spotify playlist in honor of #DayOfTheGirl. Listen→ http://t.co/Gi5WyFiJM4 pic.twitter.com/GVjvNJsP4t

— First Lady- Archived (@FLOTUS44) October 12, 2015

Like that? Check out playlists hand-picked by President Obama for a summer day and a summer night.

You'll also love our White House In Performance series. Over the course of the past few years, we've hosted a series of concerts right here in the White House — welcoming artists from Stevie Wonder to Paul McCartney to Jennifer Hudson. 

You can take a look at a selection of videos from these concerts here.

Hi everyone --

Right now, more than 62 million girls worldwide are out of school.

Many of them simply can't afford the school fees, or the nearest school is miles away and they don’t have safe transportation to get there -- or maybe there's a school nearby, but it doesn't have adequate bathroom facilities for girls. And for many girls, the obstacles they face aren't just about resources, but about cultural norms and traditions that deem girls unworthy of an education.

That's why yesterday, along with Girl Rising, we announced a new education campaign called 62 Million Girls -- and we need you to join right now:

Share a photo of yourself on Twitter or Instagram, and tell the world what you learned in school using #62MillionGirls.

In school, I learned how to speak up for myself. #62MillionGirls don't have that chance. http://t.co/xzBLsIl16r –mo pic.twitter.com/lVVkv7vcDD

— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) September 26, 2015

Those photos will be posted to Girl Rising's yearbook at 62MillionGirls.com, and you'll help us raise awareness about all the girls who aren’t in school and show the power of education to transform their lives.

That's why earlier this year, the President and I launched an initiative called Let Girls Learn. Working with the Peace Corps, businesses and organizations, and countries across the globe, we're helping adolescent girls worldwide go to school. Now, the 62 Million Girls campaign is working to raise awareness for this cause and for these girls.

As I've traveled the world, I have met so many of these girls -- and they are so bright, so determined and so eager to learn.

I see myself in these girls. I see my daughters in these girls. These girls are our girls, and I simply cannot walk away from them.

So I'm looking forward to seeing what you learned in school to help us make sure 62 million girls get that chance.

Thanks.

First Lady Michelle Obama

The last time we had an embassy in Cuba was in January of 1961, when we severed diplomatic relations at the height of the Cold War.

Today, more than 54 years later, Secretary of State John Kerry is traveling to Havana to re-open our embassy and take a historic step forward in our efforts to normalize relations with the Cuban government and people.

My visit to Havana, the first by a U.S. Secretary of State in 70 years, comes nine months after President Obama announced a new approach to relations with Cuba. It is an approach based on the ties that bind our people, the interests shared by our governments, and the mutual respect that should characterize relations between two proud nationsóeven when our policies collide.

Secretary John Kerry

Watch as Secretary Kerry raises our flag over U.S. Embassy Havana once more, and stay tuned here all day for more updates from Cuba.

Highlights from Today's Historic Events

For the first time in 54 years, the American flag flies above @USEmbCuba. #Cuba ???? http://t.co/0O4X1m5bb8

ó The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 14, 2015

Watch @JohnKerry speak about the importance of reopening @USEmbCuba. #Cuba http://t.co/wpUa2E1hU4

ó The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 14, 2015

ìThe time is now to reach out to one another as two peoples who are no longer enemies...but neighbors.î óKerry #Cuba http://t.co/9YfpZYBNJN

ó The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 14, 2015

"Matters of the Sea"

Listen to "Matters of the Sea," a poem written by Cuban-American poet Richard Blanco for today's ceremony. Blanco became the first Hispanic-American to read a poem at a presidential inauguration in 2013 for President Obama's second inauguration.  

The View from Cuba

Follow the White House on Instagram today to catch a few snapshots of this historic day in Cuba.

Check Out A Few Reactions 

As US flag is raised over @USEmbCuba in Havana, here's a look at Cuba from @Space_Station: http://t.co/FL5Wo5B8BT pic.twitter.com/GJoi403FX5

ó NASA (@NASA) August 14, 2015

Yeni K¸ba pic.twitter.com/15MxszHYZZ

ó Serif Turgut (@Ljiljantr) August 14, 2015

Pleased to be in #Havana for historic day @USEmbCuba. Incredible: last time #SecState visited #Cuba, FDR was @POTUS. pic.twitter.com/URedAaDpZs

ó John Kerry (@JohnKerry) August 14, 2015

Joining us in #Cuba, three Marines who lowered U.S. flag over the Embassy in 1961. Today they will raise it again. pic.twitter.com/JpHAvxwECs

ó Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) August 14, 2015

Want a deeper dive into our new approach? You can learn more about the steps we're taking to improve U.S. and Cuban relations here: whitehouse.gov/cuba

Last week, the First Lady headed to the U.K. and Italy on a trip that took her from talking to girls about their education, to helping share tips for healthy living at the Expo, to visiting with our military families stationed abroad.

#LetGirlsLearn: London, U.K.

In London, the First Lady was inspired and impressed by the hard-working students she met at the Mulberry School for Girls. More than 62 million girls around the world are not in school. That’s a devastating loss for all of us who are missing out on their promise. That’s why while at the Mulberry School, the First Lady also announced a nearly $200 million British and American partnership to continue their collective support for adolescent girls’ education, part of which will be directed to countries affected by conflict and crisis.

Students welcome First Lady Michelle Obama at Mulberry School for Girls in London, England, June 16, 2015. The First Lady visited to discuss the Let Girls Learn initiative. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady is presented with flowers. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama delivers remarks on the Let Girls Learn initiative. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady meets with Prince Harry for tea to discuss the Let Girls Learn initiative and support for veterans, at Kensington Palace in London, June 17, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Prime Minister David Cameron and Samantha Cameron greet the First Lady at 10 Downing Street in London. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

#LetsMove: Milan, Italy

The First Lady and the Presidential Delegation visited the U.S. pavilion themed “American Food 2.0” at the Milan World Expo 2015. While there, they met with representatives from other countries to share the successes of the First Lady’s Let’s Move! initiative, and learned about how other countries are addressing the issue of childhood obesity and raising healthier families.

Mrs. Obama arrives with daughters Sasha and Malia, and niece Leslie Robinson in Milan, Italy. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama participates in a “Let’s Move!” cooking demonstration with Italian and American middle school students at the James Beard American Restaurant. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady autographs a student’s apron after a “Let’s Move” cooking demonstration. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady and family visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama views Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, wife Agnese Landini and their families at the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama and Mrs. Landini tour the Mirror Room in the Italian Pavilion at the World Expo in Milan, June 18, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady watches food conservation videos made by students of the International School of Milan. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady greets student ambassadors and the U.S. Delegation at the USA Pavilion at the World Expo. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama tours the USA Pavilion at the World Expo. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama signs the guest book in the USA Pavilion at the World Expo. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

#JoiningForces: Vicenza, Italy

The First Lady had a great day visiting with military families stationed in Vicenza, Italy. She attended a USO-hosted barbecue, read a story to military kids with Blue Star Families and Disney’s Books on Bases, and surprised expecting mothers with gifts from Operation Shower and Glam4Good. But, celebrating our military families can’t just be a one-day event. That’s why the First Lady challenged all Americans to ask themselves what they can do for our military families stationed all around the world.

The First Lady and Col. Robert L. Menist, Jr. read to children of service members at U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza in Vicenza, Italy, June 19, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama and her daughter Malia help serve ice cream to military families. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady surprises expectant mothers during a Joining Forces surprise baby shower. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama greets military families after delivering remarks. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady, Malia, Sasha and Marian Robinson tour an exhibit at the La Biennale, in Venice, Italy, June 20, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Mrs. Obama travels by boat in Venice. (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

Learn more about the First Lady’s trip to the London, Milan, and Vicenza:

• “Michelle Obama, the Perfect Partner for Peace Corps and Let Girls Learn”
• “American Food 2.0: Representing the Presidential Delegation at Milan Expo 2015”
• “The First Lady Celebrates Military Families Stationed in Italy”

President Barack Obama participates in a Twitter Q&A at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida, May 28, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

The President just wrapped up on Twitter -- but the conversation doesn't end here: 

Thanks for the questions! This was fun. I've got to run, but let’s do it again soon. Tell me what you're doing to #ActOnClimate.

— President Obama (@POTUS) May 28, 2015

Share what you would fight to protect here -- then scroll down to see all of the President's answers to your #AskPOTUS questions.

President Obama jumped on Twitter to answer a few of your questions about Climate Change. Yes, it’s really @POTUS! Follow the conversation in real-time right here: 

Ahead of the hurricane season, President Obama is in Florida today to get his yearly briefing on the steps that the federal government, states, and families are taking to prepare.

Here's what he's doing next: talking to you on Twitter. Starting at 1:00 p.m. Eastern, the President is hopping on his brand-new Twitter account, @POTUS, to answer questions on climate live from the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Just got a hurricane preparedness briefing in Miami. Acting on climate change is critical. Got climate Qs? I'll answer at 1pm ET. #AskPOTUS

— President Obama (@POTUS) May 28, 2015

Got a question about the impacts of climate change? Get on Twitter and ask it using the hashtag #AskPOTUS. You can also follow the conversation as it happens right here, where you'll find the latest on what President Obama has to say about climate change and what he's doing to combat it.

While you wait, check out the "People's Briefing" on Hurricane Preparedness, so you are as up to date as the President on what we can do to be ready for extreme weather this year.

Stay tuned!

But, we also heard stories of hope. Nonprofit, philanthropic, federal agency, and tribal leaders discussed the work they are doing to create opportunities for Native young people to use their intellect and perseverance to achieve great things. Native youth shared stories about strengthening their communities through public service and community engagement. Members of the President’s Cabinet described the importance of new Federal investments in education, health, and economic development in Indian Country.

The First Lady provided remarks and talked about her visit to the Standing Rock Sioux Nation last June. She described her visit with the President to Cannon Ball, North Dakota -- part of the Standing Rock Sioux Nation -- and the pride, courage, determination, and maturity she witnessed there. And, with those ideals in mind, she noted both the urgency and value of investing in Native youth.

"So we all need to work together to invest deeply -- and for the long-term -- in these young people, both those who are living in their tribal communities like T.C. and those living in urban areas across this country. These kids have so much promise -- and we need to ensure that they have every tool, every opportunity they need to fulfill that promise."

— First Lady Michelle Obama

The First Lady also discussed how she and President Obama invited the kids that they had met on their visit to Cannon Ball to come to the White House. In November of 2014, the President and First Lady brought the kids to Washington, showed them around the White House, and took them out for pizza and burgers. The First Lady recalled that one young female attendee said of her visit to Washington: “This visit saved my life.”

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have lunch with youth from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe at We The Pizza/Good Stuff Eatery in Washington, D.C., Nov. 20, 2014. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

And, that is what First Lady Michelle Obama told those gathered for the convening: Investing in Indian Country will save lives.

"So if we take a chance on these young people, I guarantee you that we will save lives. I guarantee it."

— First Lady Michelle Obama

Though we may be successful separately, we know that we are stronger together. That’s where Generation Indigenous comes in. Generation Indigenous, or Gen-I, is a new initiative focused on improving the lives of Native youth by removing the barriers that stand between Native youth and their opportunity to succeed. That’s what the convening was all about. As we look forward, we are excited about the opportunity for young people, tribal leaders, the Federal government, non-profit agencies, and philanthropies to build on the President’s launch of Generation Indigenous.

Meet some of the attendees from the Generation Indigenous convening at the White House:

Kelsey Janway

"We will overcome it like we have everything else in the past." —Kelsey Janway from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Kelsey came to the White House to help celebrate Generation Indigenous, a new initiative focused on improving the lives of Native youth by removing the barriers between Native youth and their opportunity to succeed. Kelsey spoke about helping Native youth overcome high rates of heart disease by being more active and eating healthy.

Jude Schimmel

"The reason I’m here is because I’ve been given opportunities, and I want to be able to give back to Native Americans across the country." —Jude Schimmel from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Jude grew up on the reservation for the first 15 years of her life before moving off in her sophomore year of high school. Jude went on to earn a basketball scholarship from the University of Louisville, where she graduated last spring and where she is now continuing her education to earn a Master's degree. Jude has travelled to more than 40 different Native communities across the country to give inspiration and hope to her fellow Native youth.

Kendrick Eagle

"They’re my little brothers. They need someone to look up too. I’ll be that guy." —Kendrick Eagle from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. After losing his father and his step-mother, Kendrick is raising four of his little brothers on his own while attending college in North Dakota. Kendrick wants to be a voice for his brothers and for his fellow Native youth to keep them off drugs and working hard in school.

Jazmyn Espinoza

"I am a 12-time suicide attempt survivor and also a sexual assault survivor." —Jazmyn Espinoza from the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians. Through her experiences, Jazmyn created a program called the Warrior Circle Program to help other Native youth who have faced similar obstacles learn how to find a positive identity through their culture, through themselves, through their interests, and through their beliefs.

Dahkota Brown

"My tribe is actually a landless tribe like many California tribes. We don’t have land or reservations. We have what is called a Rancheria. We are multiple tribes that are put on the same really small piece of land." —Dahkota Brown from the Wilton Miwok Rancheria. To help his fellow Native youth in California and around the country, Dahkota created a program called NERDS, Native Education Raising Dedicated Students. NERDS is a peer-to-peer tutoring program to help Native youth succeed and reach higher for a college degree.

Shilo Valle

"When I left care, I was at the very bottom. I was living out in the road in a tent." —Shilo Valle from the Central Council Tlingit Haida Indian Tribes. After growing up from age 13 as a Native youth in foster care in Alaska, Shilo found himself with nowhere to go when he left care. He picked himself up by looking to the future, to a simple two-week math class, to college, to a career, and onward in life. Shilo now wants to lift up positive family care and help other Native youth in the foster system make connections to have someone to talk to and somewhere to turn when they leave care.

This month, Joining Forces is celebrating its fourth anniversary! We're talking about how we can inspire, educate, and spark action from all sectors of society to ensure service members, veterans, and their families have the tools they need to succeed throughout their lives.

Want to join the conversation? We'll be focusing on specific themes throughout the month. Around each theme, the Joining Forces team will be hosting a Twitter chat to answer your questions on mental health, homelessness, employment, and education -- and hear from you.

Ask your questions and join the conversation now using the hashtags below, and we'll answer from @JoiningForces on the day of the chat!

Mental Health: #ChangeMentalHealth
Twitter Chat: Friday, April 17 at 3:30 p.m. ET
Host: Rory Brosius, Deputy Director of Joining Forces

Homelessness: #HonoringVets
Twitter Chat: Tuesday, April 21 at 2:30 p.m. ET
Host: Colonel Steve Parker, Executive Director of Joining Forces

Employment: #HireAVet
Twitter Chat: Friday, April 24 at 3:30 p.m. ET
Host: Lieutenant Commander Kate Higgins-Bloom, White House Fellow at Joining Forces

Education: #KidsServeToo
Twitter Chat: Thursday, April 30 at 10:30 a.m. ET
Host: Jamie Lyons, Policy Director to Dr. Jill Biden

How'd we do on Tumblr this year? We reached more than 217,000 followers. We took questions from the public, and took over the I Love Charts Tumblr to look at women's equality in the workplace. In June, the President even held his first-ever Tumblr Q&A from the White House State Dining Room, answering questions from Tumblr users on all things student loans and education.

We use Tumblr because we're always looking for new ways to engage with the American people, and one of the best -- and most fun -- ways we've found to engage on Tumblr itself is through making GIFs.

That's why, to recap our year on Tumblr, we tallied up the number of notes -- the Tumblr equivalent of "likes" -- on each of the GIFs we created in 2014. Here, in order, are the top 10 GIF moments on our Tumblr this year, decided by the Tumblr users themselves:

10. When the President issued "The Decree" on The Colbert Report.

9. When we saw the danger posed by climate change.

8. When we pledged to be part of the solution.

7. When the First Lady dunked on LeBron to support healthy eating.

6. When the President gave advice to Republicans in Congress.

5. When President Obama urged the FCC to protect net neutrality.

4. When the President addressed the nation on the actions he's taking to help fix our broken immigration system.

3. When David Karp, the founder of Tumblr, fist-bumped President Obama.

2. When the President told us he'd work with anyone -- Democrat or Republican -- to get things done.

1. And finally, when Tumblr prepared to ask the President questions on student loans.

Want to see more GIFs like these? Follow the White House on Tumblr.

See more from 2014:

• See the 2014 year in review
• Check out 2014's best photos
• 2014: A Year of Action
• The Top @WhiteHouse Tweets from 2014

In the past 12 months, the First Lady passed 1 million followers on both her Twitter and Instagram accounts. She took to Twitter, YouTube, Vine, and Tumblr to answer your questions about our troops, education, and healthy eating. She even let Bo and Sunny take over her Instagram account. 

To celebrate the year, we put together, in no particular order, 10 of our favorite moments from the First Lady's social media accounts in 2014. Check out her digital year in review: 

1. The First Lady turned into a GIF to answer your questions on student loans.

2. From the United Nations, the First Lady advocated for girls’ education.

"It’s about whether fathers—and mothers—think their daughters are as worthy of an education as their sons." —The First Lady #HeForShe

— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) September 24, 2014

3. A turnip sparked some dancing for the fall garden harvest.

4. The First Lady and her daughters shared a moment on the Great Wall of China.

Sharing a moment at the Great Wall. http://t.co/LyZlco0Xae #FLOTUSinChina pic.twitter.com/tRrmrn73eL

— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) March 23, 2014

5. We ate #LunchWithFLOTUS to talk about healthy eating in schools.

Hey everyone! I'm ready to answer your questions on healthy school lunches. Let's get started! #LunchWithFLOTUS -mo pic.twitter.com/6NWFB69Bjz

— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) June 12, 2014

6. Celebratory throwbacks.

7. Dr. Biden and the First Lady answered your questions on helping service members, veterans, and their families.

8. The First Lady supported the effort to #BringBackOurGirls.

Our prayers are with the missing Nigerian girls and their families. It's time to #BringBackOurGirls. -mo pic.twitter.com/glDKDotJRt

— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) May 7, 2014

9. Tyler Oakley sat down with the First Lady to talk about getting an education beyond high school.

10. Bo and Sunny took over the First Lady’s Instagram account.

See more from 2014:

• 2014: Year in Review
• 2014: A Year of Action
• Here are nine ways we geeked out about science and technology in 2014
• These were our five favorite Joining Forces moments of 2014
• 2014: The Year in Firsts

First Lady Michelle Obama reads '' 'Twas the Night Before Christmas" during a Christmas holiday program at the Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., Dec. 15, 2014. The First Lady is seated with Elves Aaron Irby (age 9), and Kyra DeStefano (age 10), right, and Obama family pets, Bo and Sunny. (Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

First Lady Michelle Obama visited the patients at the Children’s National Medical Center today in Washington, D.C., continuing a tradition dating back more than 60 years to First Lady Bess Truman. First Dogs Bo and Sunny joined Mrs. Obama to help spread holiday cheer to the kids and their families.

After meeting with patients and doctors in the surgical care unit and with the infectious disease team, the First Lady sat down with Santa Claus to read 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to a group of children gathered in the hospital's atrium.

CHILD: I knew it was Santa!

MRS. OBAMA: You knew it was Santa! It’s a Christmas story, who else would it be? 

Watch on YouTube

The First Lady followed the story by answering questions from the children and their parents. They asked about her favorite winter activity, whether she wears Christmas pajamas, and the gifts she'll give to her daughters and her husband.

CHILD: Do Sunny and Bo have stockings?

MRS. OBAMA: They do. Everybody has a stocking in our house -- Grandma, Malia, Sasha, the President, me, Sunny and Bo. But we’re not going to tell them what we’re putting in their stockings, okay? It’s a secret. 

Continuing a tradition that dates back to Bess Truman, Mrs. Obama visits with kids at @ChildrensHealth. pic.twitter.com/7BusGgyubY

— The First Lady (@FLOTUS) December 15, 2014

For additional White House Holidays content, go to WH.gov/Holidays or use #WHHolidays on social media.

The First Lady uses Twitter and Instagram to connect with people around the country and keep her followers up-to-date on the latest news from her initiatives, Joining Forces, Let's Move, and Reach Higher. From participating in a Google+ Hangout during her trip to Africa to her Twitter Q&A #LunchWithFlotus on healthy school lunches, the First Lady is continually looking for new ways to connect with the public and answer their questions. 

To celebrate passing 1 million followers, we’ve put together a list of highlights from @FLOTUS and @MichelleObama.

Have a favorite moment of your own or ideas about new ways the First Lady could use social media? We want to hear from you! Let us know by tweeting at @FLOTUS or gramming at @MichelleObama. We’ll feature some of our favorite responses. And, don't forget to check out her board on Pinterest.

Here's a look back at some of our top social media moments from the First Lady.