CPA Selects New CEO

The Center for Policy Alternatives announced the selection of Tim McFeeley, of Washington, D.C. as CPA’s new Chief Executive Officer effective November 5, 2001. Jane Gruenebaum, who served as Acting CEO in recent months, has resumed her position as Chief Operating Officer.

McFeeley, a noted progressive political and policy leader, has worked as a lawyer, writer, manager and strategic consultant for more than two decades. Since January of 2001, McFeeley was the Political Director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, where his duties included field activities, membership development, research and political strategies.

From 1995-2001, he was a consultant to a wide range of for-profit and nonprofit groups serving a variety of missions and constituencies, including the National Senior Citizens Law Center, Common Cause, the National Association of Commissions for Women and others. From 1989-95, McFeeley led the Human Rights Campaign Fund (HRCF), a membership organization and the nation’s leading advocacy group focused on the civil rights and representation of gay and lesbian people. During his tenure, HRCF grew dramatically in size, budget and impact. It also broadened its agenda to include housing, reproductive health and other issues.

"At a time when states are critically important partners for the security and economic needs of our country, CPA is poised for a new stage of growth under Tim McFeeley’s leadership," stated Ambassador Linda Tarr-Whelan, the Chair of CPA’s Board of Directors. "He shares the values and vision that have guided CPA throughout our 25-year history, and his commitment to progressive change at the state level and grassroots empowerment parallels CPA’s core programs. His impressive background in advocacy, fundraising, and nonprofit management will increase CPA’s ability to meet its mission of helping a new generation of leaders envision and realize progressive change," noted Tarr-Whelan.

Prior to his work with HRCF, McFeeley practiced law in Boston and was general counsel for National Medical Care from 1974-89. From 1984-88, he was a Chairman of Boston’s Ward Five Democratic Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and a law degree from Harvard Law School.

"I am very grateful to CPA and its Board for this opportunity," McFeeley said. "I hope to help CPA increase its impact as we face uncertain and difficult times. There are state legislative leaders and community activists all over this country with great ideas, energy and commitment to create positive change. CPA has a powerful program to partner with these community leaders."