Washington, D.C. — Today the Center for American Progress Action Fund announced Carlissia Graham as its new president.
Graham comes to CAP Action with more than two decades of leadership across advocacy, government, philanthropy, and campaigns. Most recently, as president of New Media Ventures, she transformed the organization into a premier venture philanthropy supporting democracy, civic tech, and progressive media. As acting managing director at the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, Graham led 200 staff across the Policy, Campaigns & Advocacy division during one of the most consequential moments for reproductive rights in modern history. Earlier in her career, she served in the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Executive Office of the President, and on Capitol Hill, and in the offices of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and former Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA).
“At this critical moment for the American democratic experiment, CAP Action’s work has never been more important. Carlissia’s deep experience across digital media, organizing, and civic engagement make her the perfect leader for CAP Action right now,” said Neera Tanden, CEO of the Center for American Progress Action Fund. “For more than twenty years, CAP Action has consistently pushed the ball forward on political communications, research, and messaging. I’m excited for Carlissia to lead CAP Action into its next chapter.”
“We’re up against an administration determined to rig the rules for the wealthy and squeeze working families at every turn. CAP Action is uniquely positioned to translate policy into power, and make the harm being done to Americans visible, personal, and politically consequential,” said Graham. “I’m excited to shape the debate around affordability and help create the conditions for real change on behalf of working people.”
Tanden will retain her title as CEO of CAP Action, while continuing to serve as president and CEO of CAP Action’s sister organization, the Center for American Progress.
For more information or to speak to an expert, contact Christian Unkenholz at [email protected].