FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 7, 2009
Contact: Leigh Fifelski
517.999.3646
Progress Michigan, a strong voice for the state’s progressive community, has named former reporter and non-profit national communications director David Holtz as its new Executive Director.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have David leading the great Progress Michigan team,” said Ray Plowden, chair of the Progress Michigan Board of Directors. “In just two years Progress Michigan has pioneered the use of cutting edge media and traditional communications to increase the profile of progressive issues in Michigan and hold government and elected officials accountable.
“David’s background as a reporter who dug deep for the story behind the story, as a senior congressional staffer, non-profit director and communications professional are a perfect blend to take Progress Michigan forward. “
Holtz, 58, officially takes over as Executive Director on April 20. He succeeds Dan Farough, who is now Media Director for state House Speaker Andy Dillon and House Democrats.
“I am honored to be able to work with a great team of skilled communications professionals at Progress Michigan, people who love their work and are strongly committed to moving Michigan forward,” said Holtz. “While it’s difficult to leave Clean Water Action, it will be great to return to Michigan and work with the entire progressive community in a different capacity.”
Holtz is currently the Washington, DC-based National Communications Director for Clean Water Action, where he has been in key leadership positions for more than five years. Prior to becoming communications director, Holtz was Michigan Director for Clean Water Action. He has been Vice Chair of the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter Executive Committee and served on the Michigan Environmental Council Board of Directors.
For three years, Holtz coordinated media work for 13 Michigan organizations as Environmental Communications Coordinator for Sierra Club. In 1998 he was named Environmental Hero by the Clinton administration for his work with the Ocean Conservancy in adopting protections for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
From 1986 to 1992, Holtz was Michigan District Chief of Staff for Congressman Dale E. Kildee, D-Flint, a senior member of the U.S. House Education and Labor Committee. His work with Kildee earned him recognition from the United Auto Workers union’s political unit. Holtz previously worked as a news reporter for the Oakland Press, Flint Journal and other publications.
A former resident of Lansing and East Lansing, he will be returning to the area.
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