For information, contact:
David McGuire, CDT
(202) 637-9800 x106
The Center for Democracy & Technology is excited to announce that Leslie Harris will become Executive Director on January 1, 2006. Working closely with CDT President Jerry Berman, Harris will oversee the strategic direction of the organization, as well as managing CDT's day-to-day activities.
Harris brings more than two decades of experience as a civil liberties lawyer and policy strategist to CDT. Among other things, she played a lead role in opposing the Communications Decency Act, which was subsequently declared unconstitutional; was a principal advocate for measures such as the "E-Rate" amendment and the Technology Education and Copyright Harmonization (TEACH) Act, which helped to bring the power of the Internet to educational institutions; and led numerous coalitions on technology issues ranging from spectrum and open access to the digital divide. Harris, who most recently headed her own Washington-based public policy firm, Leslie Harris & Associates, has served in senior positions at several national organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union.
"Leslie's experience shaping public policy for both technology and civil liberties makes her perfect for CDT," Berman said. "Her deep understanding of Internet policy issues, coupled with the broad respect she's earned in the public interest community as a strategist and consensus-builder, will contribute immensely to CDT's ongoing mission to promote democratic values on the Internet."
Harris steps in for Jim Dempsey, who remains a vital part of CDT, but has moved to San Francisco, where he'll continue to serve full-time as Policy Director for the organization. Dempsey will continue to work closely with Berman, Harris and other senior staff to coordinate CDT's large and growing slate of policy initiatives.
"I've been involved with CDT from its beginnings," Harris said. "As someone deeply involved with these issues, I've long admired the organization for its nuanced understanding of the policy challenges posed by the Internet and for its pragmatic approach toward resolving those issues. I look forward to continuing and expanding on that tradition as we face a growing host of legislative and regulatory challenges to the free and open Internet."
As part of the transition, Ari Schwartz has been promoted to Deputy Director. In addition to continuing his ongoing policy efforts in the privacy space, Schwartz has taken on expanded management and administrative responsibilities.
Harris is already working closely with CDT in a consulting role and will continue to do so in the months leading up to her official start.
About CDT: The Center for Democracy and Technology works to promote democratic values and constitutional liberties in the digital age. With expertise in law, technology, and policy, CDT seeks practical solutions to enhance free expression and privacy in global communications technologies. CDT is dedicated to building consensus among all parties interested in the future of the Internet and other new communications media.