PHILADELPHIA - The American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania has named Andy Hoover as its new legislative director. Hoover has worked as a community organizer for the organization for the past three and a half years. He replaces Larry Frankel, who served in the position for over fifteen years.
"History shows us that government will compromise liberty, if given the chance. The only way to stop it is by citizens working together," said Hoover. "I look forward to organizing our friends and allies to advocate for civil rights and civil liberties at the state capitol."
Born and raised in Dauphin County, Hoover began his career as a radio broadcaster, with stints in Harrisburg and Beaver County. Since then, he has worked with and advocated for disadvantaged communities in a variety of positions, including as a houseparent at Milton Hershey School, a residential school for socially and economically disadvantaged children, and most recently as an organizer and legislative assistant for the ACLU of Pennsylvania.
Hoover graduated cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications. He recently received his Master of Arts degree in Community Psychology and Social Change from Penn State.
"I am so pleased to see Andy continue his outstanding legislative work in this new capacity. He has a deep commitment to our mission and brings effective and proven skills in working with the legislature," said Nancy Hopkins, executive director of the ACLU of Pennsylvania.
"His background in community organizing gives him an in depth understanding of everyday struggles for freedom and dignity and has also sharpened his abilities in working collaboratively," she added.
The ACLU of Pennsylvania is one of the premier statewide legal and advocacy organizations in Pennsylvania. With more than 18,000 members and offices in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, the ACLU of Pennsylvania protects constitutional rights through litigation, legislative advocacy and public education.