Wally Brewster

James (Wally) Brewster is an internationally acknowledged diplomat and business leader. Appointed by President Barack Obama as the United States Ambassador to the Dominican Republic on November 22, 2013, he served in that capacity until January 20, 2017. His appointment was significant as he was the first person in a same-sex marriage to represent the United States at the ambassadorial level in the Americas. Brewster focused on promoting democracy, human rights, and anti-corruption in the Dominican Republic. Notably, he initiated a grant from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to support the newly formed LGBT Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic, enhancing visibility and reducing stigma associated with homosexuality in the country.

Prior to his ambassadorial appointment, Brewster served as Managing Partner of SB&K Global, an international political and brand strategy firm. He is currently Principal for Insignias Global, an international political and brand advisory firm, and holds the position of CEO for the same. In addition, he is a managing partner of Patino, Brewster & Partners. His experience also includes serving as an officer and senior executive at General Growth Properties, where he led investor relations, marketing, and branding efforts. Furthermore, he has held significant roles in political campaigns, serving as the National Co-Chair of the LGBT Leadership Council for the Democratic National Committee, and held the same role in the Obama 2012 campaign and the Biden 2020 campaign.

Brewster's commitment to human rights extends beyond his career in diplomacy. He has been involved with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) for over 30 years, serving on its National Board of Directors. Today, he serves on the Advisory Board for the Atlantic Council, Parliamentarians for Global Action, and the National Democratic Institute. His work in advancing human rights and fighting corruption has been recognized with numerous awards, including being named one of the 2016 Foreign Policy Magazine's 100 Global Thinkers, one of the 2016 OUT 100, and a finalist for the Susan Cobb Award presented by the US State Department — recognitions for the highest level of diplomatic service.