SHLB Coalition Announces Leadership Transition

Washington, D.C. (December 13, 2024)—Today, the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition announced that its Executive Director, John Windhausen, will step down after 15 years of service, marking the entire span of SHLB’s existence since its inception. This planned leadership change aligns with SHLB’s strategy to address emerging broadband challenges and opportunities under a new federal landscape.

“Our advocacy is entering a phase where it will need to ramp up significantly, particularly with changes in the presidential administration," said John Windhausen, SHLB's Executive Director. At this stage in my career, I'd like to continue working on the issues I love from a different perspective.  This transition provides an ideal opportunity for new leadership to engage with incoming policymakers and carry the coalition’s mission forward."

“John has been the heart and soul of the SHLB Coalition for the past 15 years,” said Cindy Aden, SHLB's Outgoing Board Chair. “His vision and tireless advocacy have been instrumental in closing the digital divide and ensuring broadband access for schools, libraries, and healthcare providers. His unwavering commitment and passion have left an indelible mark on broadband policy and advocacy, benefiting communities nationwide. We are profoundly grateful for his leadership and legacy.”

“I’m honored to lead the SHLB Coalition during this pivotal transition,” said Phil Neufeld, SHLB's Incoming Board Chair. “Building on John’s remarkable legacy, I’m excited to guide the board through the hiring process and work closely with new leadership to address evolving broadband needs. This is a unique moment to align our mission with future opportunities, ensuring the coalition continues to thrive and deliver on its goals.”

The SHLB Coalition has formed a hiring committee to oversee the search for its next Executive Director. The committee members include:

• • Phil Neufeld - Incoming SHLB Board Chair

  • Lauren Moore - Incoming Vice Chair

  • Cindy Aden - Outgoing Chair

  • Cathy Cruzan - Treasurer

  • Beverly Sutherland - Incoming Secretary

  • Angela Siefer - Board Member

  • Melissa Slawson - Outgoing Secretary

  • John Windhausen - Current Executive Director

  • Kristen Engebretsen - SHLB COO, Staff Liaison

The coalition is currently accepting applications until January 3, 2025, and expects to have a new Executive Director in place by March 3, 2025. Interested candidates can learn more and apply by viewing the job prospectus here.

As the SHLB Coalition looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of advancing high-quality broadband for anchor institutions and the communities they serve. The organization’s leadership transition underscores its dedication to meeting evolving broadband needs and opportunities nationwide.

For questions contact Kristen Engebretsen at kengebretsen@shlb.org.