Women's Campaign Forum

Women’s Campaign Forum Announces New President

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 9, 2009

Washington, DC - Women's Campaign Forum (WCF), the nationally recognized non-partisan women's leadership organization, announced today the appointment of former congressional candidate, Siobhan "Sam" Bennett as its new president.

Women's Campaign Forum's Board Chair, Margaret (Maggie) Kavalaris, said, "We are delighted that we have brought Sam and her wealth of experience, leadership and passion to the WCF team. She knows what it's like to be involved at all levels of politics from community organizing and volunteering to running for Congress. I know that Sam, as WCF President, will lead the organization into a new era of pro-choice women's leadership and member engagement. And she herself is an outstanding example of what women can do when their talent is matched with a dedication for public service." Kavalaris added, "Our search process was robust as we reviewed more than 100 candidate submissions, from many talented women managers and leaders. We welcome Sam who will be a special asset to WCF because she knows what it's like to walk the walk. She's excelled at business and grassroots campaigns, and her experience will be invaluable in her new role as leader of the WCF team."

In 2008, Sam ran for Congress in Pennsylvania's 15th district. She ran one of the most successful challenger campaigns in that district in recent history. Prior to her candidacy, Sam was a small business owner; founded a statewide non-profit community and economic revitalization organization; was a successful telecommunications corporate executive; and has been a dedicated community and political leader, and a wife and mother of three children. Throughout her career, she has been a tireless pro-choice advocate and supporter of women's issues.

"I am thrilled to be joining the Women's Campaign Forum," said Bennett. "This organization has a shining history of providing the tools necessary for pro-choice women of all political stripes to get involved in politics. We will be continuing our work to recruit and encourage pro-choice women candidates by endorsing and supporting them financially, while at the same time, we will continue to grow as the place where pro-choice women of all levels - from candidates to political experts to leaders in the women's community to those newly interested in politics - come together to pool resources and ensure that women are represented both in front and behind the curtain."

Contact: Erin Cutraro, (202) 393-8164  

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