Washington, DC - Heather Roebke has been named the new executive director of Take Pride in America®, a nationwide initiative aimed at increasing volunteer service on America's public lands.  Roebke, who joins the Department of the Interior from the White House, replaces Michelle Cangelosi, who left the program in October 2006. 

"I am excited to join this team,” said Heather Roebke.  “I look forward to working withour partners in supporting the volunteers who work hard to help maintain and enhance our shared spaces."

Roebke will manage partnerships between corporations and associations and the Take Pride program.  She will help coordinate with federal, state, and local stakeholders to involve them in planning Take Pride events in local communities across the nation.  Additionally, she will focus on increasing volunteerism among young people so the legacy of our Nation’s public lands is continued for future generations. 

Prior to joining Take Pride in America, Ms. Roebke served as an aide in the White House Counsel's Office.  Earlier in her career, she served in the office of Florida Governor Jeb Bush in various roles, and also served as Scheduling Director to then-Secretary Mel Martinez at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.  Ms. Roebke studied Communications and Public Relations at Florida State University.

Take Pride in America was re-introduced in April 2003 as part of USA Freedom Corps, a White House initiative dedicated to fostering a culture of service to others. Take Pride in America® is a nationwide program within the U.S. Department of the Interior that aims to engage, support, and recognize volunteers who work to improve our public lands, waters, and cultural and historical sites. 

For more information, visit www.TakePride.gov.

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