Obama to tap Nike leader as service leader

WASHINGTON, April 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama said Tuesday he intends to nominate the Nike Foundation president to lead the Corporation for National and Community Service.

Maria Eitel, Obama said in a release, brings a "unique blend of skills and management experiences" that will help her lead the national service program.

Eitel is president of the Nike Foundation and a former vice president of Nike Inc. in charge of corporate responsibility. As Nike Foundation president, she oversaw efforts to increase opportunities for the world's most disadvantaged girls, the White House said.

Obama said Eitel was "genuinely passionate" about using national and community service to mobilize change and would bring "new, creative thinking to the growth and mission of the corporation."