NARAL Pro-Choice Washington Announces a Leadership Transition
SEATTLE - After two and a half years at NARAL Pro-Choice Washington, Executive Director Lauren Simonds announced that she is leaving the organization. The NARAL board is sad to see her go and is very grateful for her leadership and contributions to the organization. "We thank Lauren for her leadership and skills. She's been a tremendous asset to the organization," said Priya Sinha, NARAL Pro-Choice Washington's board chair. NARAL has chosen Christi Stapleton to serve as interim Executive Director. Stapleton is a consultant with more than 20 years of leadership experience in the public and private sectors, as well as non-profits. Her executive business background includes transition management, process improvement and performance management as well as CEO-level marketing, media management, communications and public relations. "I'm excited that Christi is stepping into the position. She brings years of organizational and leadership skills that will help ensure a strong and smooth transition for the entire organization," said Shakti Hawkins, chair of NARAL Pro-Choice Washington Foundation. “Christi and I will be working closely through the transition,” said outgoing director Simonds. “I am thrilled NARAL has chosen her to fill this position. I know she has the skills needed to ensure a smooth transition, relationships with key legislative and political partners, and insight into the complexity of the organization and its vision for moving forward into 2012.” Stapleton has an extensive record of volunteerism which includes service on the boards of directors for the 34th District Democrats, NARAL Pro-Choice Washington, and the White Center Food Bank. She started a human services non-profit and is an advocate for women's and children's issues. In addition, she has worked on several campaigns in a leadership and volunteer capacity in the areas of campaign strategy and management, fundraising, and community outreach. “I look forward to working with Lauren, NARAL’s staff and board at this important time for women’s reproductive rights,” said Stapleton. “I am honored to help NARAL in this transition and believe that NARAL is well-positioned for a stable and productive legislative and election cycle. We have a solid base of donors, an amazing staff, a solid strategic plan and a savvy board." “NARAL Pro-Choice Washington has guarded against anti-choice, anti-woman laws for decades,” added Stapleton. “I will proudly continue Washington's tradition as one of the most pro-choice states in the nation and will work hard to protect against erosions in rights and access to reproductive health services.” NARAL Pro-Choice Washington is the leading grassroots pro-choice advocacy organization in Washington State. NARAL Pro-Choice Washington works to protect every woman’s right to access the full range of reproductive health options, including preventing unintended pregnancy, bearing healthy children, and choosing legal abortion. NARAL Pro-Choice Washington is the state affiliate of NARAL Pro-Choice America. ###
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