NEWS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 9, 2007
Contact: Diane Brossart
Valley Forward Association
(602) 240-2408

VALLEY FORWARD WELCOME STEPHANIE HICKS
New Hire Joins Employee Roster to Boost Awareness

PHOENIX, Ariz. (February 9, 2007) – Widely recognized in the Valley as a non-profit environmental public interest organization, Valley Forward Association (VFA) has recently welcomed Stephanie Hicks to the team serving as an executive assistant.

In her new role, Hicks will provide administrative and clerical support to VFA. She will also independently take on special projects as needed. Hicks’ duties include assistance in the communication of VFA activities, both to members and outside audiences, while her previous experience will aid in public relations efforts on the behalf of the association.

The opportunity with VFA will allow Hicks to expand upon her earlier non-profit work with the Arizona Animal Welfare League where she served as an adoption counselor. Hicks’ additional skills include efforts in customer service, public relations, as well as a media relations role with New Mexico State University. Through her public relations experience, Hicks was responsible for spearheading the Wilderness Campaign for the American Red Cross.

Her addition to VFA brings the team to five full-time employees who are responsible for the management of all organization activities.

"We are delighted to have Stephanie on board," said Diane Brossart, president of Valley Forward Association. "Her non-profit and public relations experience will bring a great deal of value to our team."

Hicks is currently enrolled at Arizona State University, studying to receive a Masters of Communication degree, which is expected to be complete in Spring 2008. She gained her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication at New Mexico State University in 2005.

Established in 1969, Valley Forward is a non-profit organization that brings business, civic and community leaders together to convene thoughtful public dialogue on regional issues and to promote cooperative efforts to improve the environment and quality of life in Valley communities.