U.S. General Services Administration
GSA Turns 72
Post filed in: GSA Feature
While July 1st always marks GSA’s birthday celebrations, this year is extra special because today we welcome our new administrator: Robin Carnahan. Welcome to the GSA family, Robin!
Another passing year allows us to reflect on GSA’s history, current endeavors and future ambitions. In the last seven decades, GSA has streamlined the way the government uses and provides real estate, acquisition services and technology, while also leading in design, innovation and collaboration.
To explore GSA’s mission and what it means for the future, we must first look at where GSA began.
GSA was established on July 1,1949, by President Harry S. Truman to centralize the federal government’s administrative work by providing supplies and workplaces for federal employees. GSA’s creation consolidated the National Archives Establishment, the Federal Works Agency, the Public Buildings Administration, the Bureau of Federal Supply, the Office of Contract Settlement, and the War Assets Administration.
Over the years, GSA’s mission has evolved to what it is today: delivering value and savings in real estate, acquisition, technology and other mission-support services across government.
GSA remains committed to mission enablement while expanding to encompass shifting priorities. For example, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, GSA recently jumped in to support federal agencies and state and local governments by providing materials and services urgently needed to enhance safety and health in GSA-managed federal and leased locations.
GSA also supports four key administrative priorities: a safer federal workplace, building a bridge to economic recovery, advancing racial equity and tackling the climate crisis. Each of these priorities is at the forefront of GSA’s goals and decisions. Each one is being integrated into every aspect of GSA’s mission.
GSA’s history is full of new beginnings that reflect our nation’s government’s growth and evolving missions. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt, innovate and transform as an agency, and look forward to our future.
Join us in celebrating our 72nd year and welcoming Robin. Follow us on @USGSA for a historical look back on GSA’s history throughout July. Happy birthday, GSA!