10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania has chosen Berks County Commissioner Chairwoman Judy Schwank as its new President and CEO.

"Judy's appointment comes at a critical time for 10,000 Friends, and we are delighted to appoint Judy to the helm," said Eric Menzer, Chairman of the Board of 10,000 Friends, and Vice-President of Wagman Construction, Inc., in York. "Her work as a County Commissioner, leading efforts for farmland preservation and smart growth in Berks County, and her leadership at the state level, as Chair of the State Planning Board, clearly give her the blend of experience, integrity and policy knowledge that will ensure the success of our mission."

"Judy's experience will be invaluable, especially with our Campaign to Renew Pennsylvania," said Menzer. "We're looking forward to her efforts to advance our goal to create a climate for systemic policy reform in Pennsylvania to improve government effectiveness, community quality of life and economic competitiveness."

"The experience I gained and the relationships I built in Berks County have afforded me the opportunity to provide leadership on the issues that really matter to Pennsylvania residents," said Schwank. "I'm looking forward to working with citizens, local and state officials, and civic and business leaders throughout the Commonwealth."

Schwank was elected to the Berks County Board of Commissioners in 1999 and re-elected in 2003. Prior to that, she served more than 18 years with the Pennsylvania State Cooperative Extension, and is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University. As President of 10,000 Friends, she succeeds Janet Milkman, who resigned in May 2007. Schwank will begin work January 2008.

7/20/2007