by Eric Bridges
To read this announcement online, visit: http://www.acb.org/tony-stephens.
I am very pleased to announce that the American Council of the Blind has appointed Anthony “Tony” Stephens as our Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs.
Tony brings a wealth of experience advocating on issues encompassing people who are blind or visually impaired. Most recently he managed public policy and advocacy at National Industries for the Blind — representing NIB on Capitol Hill, working with national disability coalitions, and leading NIB’s Advocates for Leadership and Employment program.
I have had the great fortune to work closely with Tony over the past five years and firmly believe that he possesses the passion and skill sets to effectively represent ACB’s interests to Capitol Hill, the executive branch, and beyond. His work on social justice campaigns spans more than two decades, working on some of the most complex issues in the public-interest sector, such as health care, immigration, and poverty reform. A former Jesuit, he has played an integral role in bridging coalitions between secular and faith-based organizations, and previously worked for The Opportunity Agenda — a New York-based communications think tank focusing on media, mainstream culture, and domestic human rights causes.
Legally blind since birth, Tony lost the remainder of his sight at age 15 due to acute-angle closure glaucoma. He serves on multiple boards representing people with disabilities, and is a member of ACB of Maryland. Tony holds a master of arts in mass communications and a bachelor of arts in journalism from the University of Georgia; and he received a certificate in business management from George Mason University. He resides in College Park, Md. with his wife Lauren; two young sons, Oliver and Elliott; and his guide dog, Palmer.
Tony’s first day in the national office was Jan. 11. His e-mail is[email protected].
If you have a moment, please feel free to send him a message welcoming him to the team. I am excited to begin the next chapter in ACB’s national advocacy efforts.