SSSL Member D. J. Grothe Named President of the James Randi Educational Foundation.

Congratulations to our own D. J. Grothe, who has been named President of the James Randi Educational Foundation. D. J. spent 10 years at the Center for Inquiry, where he most recently served as Vice President and Director of Outreach Programs. In his role at CFI, Grothe helped establish a robust grassroots program encompassing a network of 26 North American branches of the Center, as well as 180 affiliated skeptical and freethought campus groups. Formerly a professional magician, he has also hosted the popular radio show and podcast Point of Inquiry since 2005, exploring the role of science and skepticism in society.

We, here at the SSSL, know that D. J. will have a very positive impact on one of the world's most prestigious skeptical organizations. "After considering several impressively qualified candidates, we have decided that D. J. Grothe is our choice to lead the JREF," said James Randi, Founder and Chairman of the Board. "D. J. has made significant contributions to the organized skeptical movement, is a well-known figure in the skeptic community, and his track record speaks for itself. He has displayed the strong leadership and dedication to innovation required to take the JREF to the next level."
 
D. J. will begin his duties at the JREF January 1st 2010. Take a moment to wish him well in his new endeavor at our next event. Although D. J. will be very focused of the vision of the JREF as he enters this exciting phase of his life, he has assured me that he will remain a very active member of the St. Louis Skeptical Community.