1997, degree in Sociology, Political Science and Law, University of Oslo and Norwegian University of Science and Technology. 1989-90, Leader of the Labour Youth League in Sør-Trøndelag County; 1990-96, Member of the Labour Youth League's Central Executive Committee; 1992-96, Leader of the Labour Youth League; 1992-96, Member of the Labour Party's Central Executive Committee; 1997-2001, Member of the Storting for Sør-Trøndelag County; 2000-01, Minister of Education, Research and Church Affairs, Jens Stoltenberg's first government; 2001-05, Member of the Labour Party Parliamentary Group; 2001-05, Member of the Storting for Sør-Trøndelag County; 2005-09, Minister of Culture and Church Affairs, Jens Stoltenberg's second government; since 2009, current position. 1997-2001, Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs; Election Committee; 1999, Delegate to the UN General Assembly; 2001-05, Standing Committee on Family, Cultural Affairs and Government Administration.