• Home
• Voting & Democracy
  • Go Vote
  • N.C. Voter Guide
  • VoterRadio.com
• Research & Publications
  • Follow the Money
  • NCCVE Research
• Multimedia
  • The Voter Update Podcast
• For the Media
  • News Releases
  • Media Advisories
  • Contact NCCVE
• About Us
  • Board of Directors
  • Staff
  • Contribute to NCCVE
  • Contact Us
• Search

For immediate release.
Nov. 7, 2007
Contact: Bryan Warner, N.C. Center for Voter Education, 919.839.1200

N.C. Center for Voter Education Announces New Executive Director

RALEIGH - John Thompson has been selected as the new executive director of the nonprofit N.C. Center for Voter Education.

Currently the director of government relations in North Carolina for the American Cancer Society, Thompson will take the reigns of the N.C. Center for Voter Education from departing longtime director Chris Heagarty. This past August, Heagarty announced his decision to step down as head of the nonpartisan organization after a successful seven-year tenure.

During his time at the American Cancer Society, Thompson has played a key role in shepherding through the legislature bills aimed at caring for cancer victims and curbing tobacco use.  Among his achievements are a prohibition on smoking in state government buildings, a 30-cent increase on the cigarette excise tax and securing funds for the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

“John brings a proven record of success and a keen understanding of how public policy is shaped in our state, while showing a passion for improving the lives of his fellow North Carolinians,” said Jon Williams, chair of the search committee that recommended Thompson to the full board of directors. “The Center is very pleased to have John with us and we anticipate continued success with improving elections and empowering voters in North Carolina.”

Prior to joining the American Cancer Society, Thompson worked as a governmental affairs director for the N.C. Manufactured Housing Institute and as a project manager with the political consulting firm Campaign Connections.  He is a graduate of N.C. State University with a degree in political science. A Gulf War veteran, Thompson served in the 82nd Airborne Division from 1990 to 1995.

“I appreciate the opportunity to lead the Center for Voter Education as we enter an exciting election year,” said Thompson.  “I look forward to working with Center staff and board members to engage state leaders and citizens in the process of making our election system more responsive to North Carolina voters.”

###

Listen to John Thompson discussing his background and vision for NCCVE in this edition of The Voter Update Podcast.