James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation announces new executive secretary/CEO
The James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation, a national leader in civics education, today announced the Board of Trustees’ appointment of the Honorable Julie E. Adams as its new executive secretary, effective October 20, 2024. Ms. Adams succeeds Lewis F. Larsen, who announced his retirement on October 1, 2024, after 38 years with the Foundation. As executive secretary, Ms. Adams will serve as the Foundation’s chief executive officer and report directly to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.
“The Board is delighted that Julie Adams will be leading the Foundation in our next phase of critical work to support the study of the Constitution,” said Laura Dove, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “She is a skilled and respected leader whose longstanding love for social studies education has been a hallmark of her career. Her experience and relationships will build on a stellar program.”
Dr. Guy Burnett will join the senior leadership team as the chief of staff and academics for the Foundation. Dr. Burnett has worked at the Foundation since August 2021.
Prior to her appointment, Ms. Adams served in senior positions at the United States Senate for over 20 years, including six years as a constitutional officer elected by the body. From 2021 to 2024 she served in the Office of the Senate Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper as a liaison to senior leadership. In 2015, Ms. Adams was elected by the Senate as the 33rd Secretary of the Senate, a non-partisan position, where she served until 2021. In that role, Ms. Adams served as the Senate’s chief administrative, financial and legislative officer. From 2009-2014 Ms. Adams served as the director of administration for the Senate Republican Leader and from 2003-2007 as deputy communications director for the Senate Majority Whip.
From 2007-2009, Ms. Adams served as the deputy press secretary in the Office of the First Lady of the United States.
A native of Iowa City, Iowa, Ms. Adams obtained her bachelor’s degree in political science from Luther College and a master’s degree in education focusing on social studies from the University of Iowa.
Of her appointment, Ms. Adams said, “I am excited to lead the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation, an agency created by Congress, with the assistance and encouragement of The Commission on the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution, to educate America’s students about our system of government. I look forward to working with the Foundation’s current and future James Madison Fellows to accomplish this vital mission. It is an honor to advance this legacy of excellence in civics education.”
Founded by an Act of Congress in 1986, the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation is an independent agency of the Executive Branch of the Federal Government. Additional information may be found at www.jamesmadison.gov.
Contact:
571-858-4200