AUSTIN – During the last two years, the Texas Public Policy Foundation has significantly increased its research and outreach activities – responding to the threat from federal overreach posed to states' liberties, and the opportunities at home for Texas to continue its role as the nation's economic leader.
Working with diverse coalitions of elected officials, academics, and activists, the Foundation has launched several initiatives that include the national Right on Crime campaign to take Texas' successful criminal justice reforms to other states, as well as our work with think tank allies in other states that highlighted the devastating economic effects of federal stimulus, health care, and environmental legislation.
As the Foundation continues the fight for free markets and liberty, it announces several staff changes:
Justin Keener, the Foundation's vice president of policy and communications, is leaving the Foundation to start a public affairs practice with Kris Heckmann.
"Whether leading national campaigns with our sister think tanks in other states or managing the Foundation's policy work here in Texas, Justin's relationships, expertise, and vision helped the Foundation greatly expand its ability to influence the public policy debate," said Foundation President Brooke Rollins. "We congratulate him on his new venture and look forward to continue growing upon our successes."
David Guenthner, the Foundation's director of media and government relations for the last four years, has been promoted to senior communications director. Guenthner will now manage the Foundation's communications initiatives, reporting to the Foundation's executive director Arlene Wohlgemuth. The Foundation will hire a deputy communications director to support these activities.
"David's tireless efforts have greatly increased our visibility and reputation during the last four years," Rollins said. "His award-winning work to expand our social media and traditional media outreach has proven immensely valuable as we fight to educate voters about the benefits of liberty and free markets. His new role with the Foundation will give the Foundation even greater capabilities to engage citizens in the debate."
Joining the Foundation's staff is Joshua Treviño, who will serve in the new position of senior projects director. Treviño has previously served as the vice president for public policy at the Pacific Research Institute, the Foundation's counterpart in California. His background includes extensive experience in the government, military, non-profit, campaign, and private sectors. He is a co-founder of RedState.com, one of the conservative movement's most influential blogs.
"Joshua is someone we have known and respected for several years, and we are thrilled that we finally have the opportunity to bring him onto our team," Rollins said. "He will provide day-to-day support to help run some of our major projects. His diverse experience and policy knowledge will be especially helpful during this critical legislative session."
The Texas Public Policy Foundation is a non-profit free-market research institute based in Austin.
Primary website: www.TexasPolicy.com Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/TexasPublicPolicyFoundation Twitter feed: www.Twitter.com/TPPF
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