Conservative background gives secular ideals a new potency

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian Magee, 202-238-9088 ex. 105, mobile: (202) 681-2425
bmagee@americanhumanist.org

(Washington, DC – May 3, 2012) – The American Humanist Association is looking forward to working with Edwina Rogers, the new executive director of the Secular Coalition for America, a coalition of eleven nontheist organizations working to protect the separation of church and state. After an extensive search, she was chosen by a committee that included AHA Executive Director Roy Speckhardt.

Rogers has two decades of experience in Washington as an attorney and lobbyist, having worked for a number of Republican officials, including stints as general counsel to the National Republican Senatorial Committee (1994), with Sen. Trent Lott while he was majority leader (1999), and for Sen. Jeff Sessions (2003-2004).

Rogers has also worked in the White House, serving as an economic advisor to President George W. Bush from 2001-2002 as well serving his administration at the National Economic Council. In addition, from 1989-1991 she worked for President George H. W. Bush at the Department of Commerce.

“Edwina Rogers is among the growing number of conservatives who understand that atheist and agnostic Americans deserve equal recognition,” said Speckhardt. “It may seem counter-intuitive for an organization dedicated to America’s secular roots to select someone with a strong Republican background, but her invaluable experience will provide unique access to help grow our movement.”

Rogers most recently worked as executive director of the Patient Centered Primary Care Collaborative where she organized diverse coalition to successfully implement the Patient-Centered Medical Home model.

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The American Humanist Association (www.americanhumanist.org) advocates for the rights and viewpoints of humanists and atheists in the United States. Founded in 1941 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., its work is extended through more than 140 local chapters and affiliates across America.

Humanism is a progressive philosophy of life that, without theism, affirms our responsibility to lead ethical lives of value to self and humanity.