AFT appoints Michael S. Powell as assistant to the president for communications

The American Federation of Teachers announced today the appointment of Michael S. Powell as assistant to the president for communications.

"I am very excited that Michael will be leading our communications team as we tackle the myriad of issues confronting educators, healthcare providers and public servants," said AFT President Randi Weingarten.

Powell has been a leading communications strategist in the private and political worlds. He developed strategies for Fortune 500 companies--including for Nextel, when its communication devices failed to work during 9/11. 

He helped the state of California with its message and media campaign to address an energy crisis that had resulted in rolling brownouts. Powell has extensive political campaign and congressional experience, having served as a strategist for Democratic U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives and gubernatorial candidates. 

In addition, he served as chief of staff for Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.) and former Rep. Joseph Kennedy (D-Mass.).

(Courtesy information)