Florida Young Democrats Announces New Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2008

Florida -- The Florida Young Democrats (FYD), an organization committed to building, fostering and turning out Florida Democrats under 40, is proud to announce the appointment of Lori Poole as its new Executive Director. As Executive Director, Ms. Poole will handle the day-to-day functioning of FYD, as well as helping to create new local chapters and building stronger ties between Young Democrats across Florida.

Ms. Poole, who was appointed following a nationwide search, has the credentials and the skills needed to take FYD to the next level in Florida.  A graduate of Florida State University, Ms. Poole joins us from the Florida Justice Association where she was responsible for message development and public relations and was active in the association's legislative and political programs.  She also oversaw the development and coordination of the FJA Young Lawyers Section and its activities.  Ms. Poole is also an active member and elected officer of the Leon County Democratic Executive Committee.

"Young voters aren't simply the future of the Democratic Party - they provide the strength and the energy that make it a force for change today," said Ms Poole.  "I'm incredibly honored to be a part of helping to build the Young Democrat groundswell that will carry Florida and national Democrats to victory, not just in November, but for years to come.

Bringing on a full time FYD staff person has been a long-term goal that was made possible through FYD donors and a matching partnership with Young Democrats of America (YDA).  YDA, the nation's largest youth-led, partisan political organization, has been working to build long-term national and state infrastructure for the youth movement through their State Partnership Program. Ms. Poole's hire brings the number of state executive directors to seven, with an eighth due to come on board in Ohio by June.

"The Florida Young Democrats are very excited about our new Executive Director as this opens the door for a much more active and integrated youth movement in Florida," said Alan Brock, FYD President.  "Her presence will help to coordinate the efforts of Young Democrats across the state, while providing professional quality organizational support to local YD chapters.  This is a great day for Florida Democrats of all ages."