ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Feb. 20, 2014) — National PTA® is pleased to announce that Joanne E. Dunne, CAE has been named interim executive director. With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector as well as in PTA, Dunne will lead the association while a search is conducted for a new executive director.

“Joanne is a strategic and creative executive with expertise in growing associations from good to great,” said Otha Thornton, National PTA President. “Her leadership and expertise will be tremendous assets to National PTA and our members, partners and sponsors as we work together in 2014 to support and take action for children and families across the country.”

Dunne has more than 30 years of experience as a nonprofit association executive. She specializes in working with nonprofits in transition and focuses on growing associations through strategic business development, organizational realignment and enhanced partnerships and network building. Dunne has held CEO and senior management positions for a wide range of national and international associations, including healthcare, government, military and management organizations. She has worked in all areas of association management, including membership, marketing, education and events as well as finance, government relations and communications. Recently, Dunne completed a three-year interim assignment as executive director of the National Council of Catholic Women.

Dunne is a certified association executive. She is a member of the American Society of Association Executives and the CEO Group, an exclusive, invitation-only group for association CEOs in the Washington DC area. She also is a member of the University Club of Washington DC and serves on its Membership Development and Finance Committees. Dunne is a frequent speaker at conferences and seminars and facilitates strategic planning sessions. In addition to her extensive management and nonprofit experience, she also has experience in PTA with involvement at the local and council levels.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve National PTA’s members, Board of Directors, volunteers and staff and ensure a seamless transition as the association searches for and selects a new executive director,” said Dunne. “I am thrilled to be a part of the important work of PTA and to help continue its legacy to improve the lives and futures of our nation’s children.”

As the largest volunteer child advocacy association in the nation, National PTA is the conscience of the country for children issues. Through advocacy, as well as family and community education, National PTA has established programs and called for legislation that improves children’s lives, such as:

• Early childhood education
• Health and wellness programs
• Family engagement
• School safety
• Juvenile justice
• Arts in education

For more information about National PTA and its programs and initiatives, visit PTA.org.

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c) (3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.