Embracing the Changing Role of Parents: PTA Names First-Ever Male, African-American CEO

CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - June 17, 2008) - In a strategic move that symbolizes the vision of the national organization and the changing role of parents, PTA will name its first-ever male, African-American chief executive officer next week in San Diego.

Representing a long line of visionary leaders since 1897 for an organization once known as the National Congress of Mothers, Byron V. Garrett will be introduced to attendees at the 112th Annual PTA National Convention & Exhibition (June 20-23rd). He will continue the organization's rich legacy of engaging parents, schools, legislators, and community leaders in improving children's health, safety, and educational success.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce new, cutting edge methods of connecting families and schools in underrepresented communities to better the lives and futures of our nation's children," said Garrett. "This position offers me a new avenue to work on behalf of the issues that lie closest to my heart -- families, children, education, and youth development."

Garrett will work in concert with the PTA National Board of Directors to continue long-term strategies and priorities that benefit families nationwide. Applying his experience in youth development and education, as well as managing a diverse and multi-tiered work force, Garrett will integrate PTA's core values with the association's strategic plan to speak for every child with one voice.

"Byron brings a unique perspective, as well as new ideas, partners, and resources to assist with the challenges of today's families and school communities," said Jan Harp Domene, PTA national president. "With his selection, we want to send a very direct message to families that PTA is in tune with the challenges facing parents today."

The announcement comes on the heels of a PTA national poll that shows more men are getting involved in their child's education than ever before. Garrett will join a long list of notable men that have called attention to the importance of PTA, including PTA's first-ever male president-elect, Chuck Saylors, installed last year; U.S. presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton; California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger; television personality and child advocate Fred Rogers of "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood"; actor Bill Cosby; basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Jr.; and race car driver Carl Edwards.

NOTE: A complete bio and photo of Garrett is available upon request.

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About PTA

PTA comprises more than 5.5 million parents and other concerned adults devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA flourishes in more than 25,000 school communities nationwide by harnessing the energy and talents of millions of volunteers to be: voices for all children; relevant resources for families and communities; and champions for the education and well-being of every child. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned about the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.

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Contact Information: Contact: James Martinez O: 800.307.4782 Ext. 325 C: 773.339.4533 E: