Today, Public Knowledge launched the Gene Kimmelman Fellowship Fund to train the next generation of consumer advocates specializing in technology, telecommunications, and intellectual property policy.
Throughout Kimmelman’s decades of public service, he created fellowships and other mentorship programs to nurture the next generation of diverse consumer advocates. When Kimmelman joined Public Knowledge as President and CEO in 2014, he embarked on a large scale project to create a diverse pipeline of future advocates through intensive, on-the-job fellowship training. Since then, Public Knowledge has hosted almost 20 full-time fellows through the support Kimmelman generated.
This year, Kimmelman passed the baton to a new generation of public interest advocates at Public Knowledge by becoming the organization’s Senior Advisor, based on his belief that there comes a time when others should have the opportunity to lead the way. He will continue providing strategic counsel for increasing competition in the technology marketplace.
Kimmelman’s decades of experience in media and technology policy — especially antitrust law — will be a tremendous resource as Public Knowledge remains at the vanguard of technology and internet policy. The Gene Kimmelman Fellowship Fund both honors his legacy and continues the important work of training advocates to fight for consumers in the digital era.
The following can be attributed to Chris Lewis, President and CEO at Public Knowledge:
“Few have contributed as much time, mentorship, or training to aspiring advocates as Gene Kimmelman. He pioneered Public Knowledge’s fellowship program, connecting young advocates with the public interest community while helping them master immensely complicated policy and politics through a learning-by-doing approach. Gene especially encouraged women, people of color, and anyone who experienced adversity to overcome the challenges of public interest work — no matter their background or knowledge level.
“For seeing value in diverse voices, for welcoming new advocates from across America, and for supporting anyone with an interest in how technology policy affects people, we’re creating a fellowship to honor his commitment to training the next generation of consumer advocates. If you share this same commitment and would like to join Gene in championing these new advocates and our public interest values, please donate today.”
You may view more information on the Gene Kimmelman Fellowship Fund to make a tax-deductible contribution.
Members of the media may contact Communications Director Shiva Stella with inquiries, interview requests, or to join the Public Knowledge press list at shiva@publicknowledge.org or 405-249-9435.