National PTA Reinforces Commitment to Strengthening Diversity, Leadership

ALEXANDRIA, VA--(Marketwire - Sep 17, 2012) - The National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) continues its work toward ensuring that the leadership of PTA always reflects the mosaic that is American society. The association is hosting this week the 2012 National PTA Emerging Minority Leaders Conference, September 21-23 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Washington DC, Crystal City.

"Today's PTA represents and works for every child and family in this nation, regardless of ethnicity, culture, gender or socio-economic status. As such, we are committed to ensuring that PTA leaders nationwide are representative of our country's diverse communities. We are proud of this incredible conference and gratified to welcome the emerging leaders attending this event. These strong leaders will be of enormous benefit to their communities," said Betsy Landers, National PTA President.

Now in its seventh year, the conference will feature three guest speakers, more than a dozen workshops and alumni of past conferences that have risen to state leadership roles in recent years. Speakers include:

• Michael L. Davis, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA)
• Thomas A. Saenz, President and General Counsel, Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF)
• Mauricio Velasquez, President, Diversity Training Group (DTG)

The workshops will cover an array of topics, including: bridging the diversity gap; working with multi-generational families; being a leader in the 21^st century; building advocacy campaigns; being a leader in tough economic times; building other leaders; male involvement; and building a diverse leadership team, among other topics.

A complete list of workshops and more information about the event can be found at pta.org/emlc. Media credentials can be requested by emailing jmartinez@pta.org.

About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.

To view a media-rich version of this release, go to: http://www.pwrnewmedia.com/2012/national_pta/minority_leaders/