It was Monica Crowley, the poised Chief of Protocol, who managed to charm the famously stoic Vladimir Putin on the tarmac at Elmendorf Air Force Base. With a handshake and a smile, she reminded the world that behind every historic moment stands someone ensuring every flag, step, and second is perfectly in place. Before organizing summits between world powers, Crowley was best known as a Fox News analyst and bestselling author of books on President Nixon.

Now, she’s the behind-the-scenes force shaping President Trump’s biggest diplomatic events—including this weekend’s tense meeting with the Kremlin. As Chief of Protocol, Crowley oversees the choreography of diplomacy: working with embassies, coordinating meetings, and managing every ceremonial detail.

But on Friday, her usually invisible role took the spotlight when Putin returned her smile—a rare gesture from the Russian leader. Appointed by Trump and sworn in on May 30, Crowley will soon oversee America’s 250th Independence Day celebration, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

A Columbia PhD and former Treasury official, she brings decades of experience—from serving under President Nixon to hosting The Monica Crowley Show. While global leaders debate the outcomes of Trump’s latest talks, one thing is clear: Monica Crowley has quietly earned her place at the world’s most powerful tables.