FOR RELEASE: August 5, 2015    
CONTACT: Stephanie Niedringhaus, 202-347-9797 x224, sniedringhaus@networklobby.org

WASHINGTON – We are pleased to welcome Joe Ward as NETWORK’s new Media Manager. He begins his work with us as Stephanie Niedringhaus prepares to retire after 20 exciting years at NETWORK. The transition period will last over several weeks and will include very special activities around Pope Francis’s September visit to Washington. (Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks!)

Sister Simone Campbell, NETWORK Executive Director, noted that “Stephanie has helped shepherd a dramatic increase in NETWORK’s media exposure during her years at NETWORK and will be missed.” She added, “I am delighted to welcome Joe Ward, a seasoned communications strategist and social justice advocate, to lead our communications program into what I know will be an exciting future.”

Joe comes to NETWORK from the Human Rights Campaign, where he served as the Associate Director of the Religion and Faith Program. While at HRC, he directed the religion and faith programs in Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, Nebraska and Wyoming. His work ranged from preparing and editing op-eds, talking points and statements for faith leaders to facilitating community meetings and developing resources for congregations.

Prior to HRC, he worked as the director of Believe Out Loud, a new media platform that publishes daily blogs and social media content at the intersection of faith and human sexuality issues. He also served as the communications director of the Collegiate Churches of New York’s social justice ministry.

Joe can be reached at jward@networklobby.org.

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