Nancy Keenan
NARAL Pro-Choice America’s new president is an experienced public official who’s won three statewide elections; a lifelong activist with a deep commitment to a woman’s right to choose and right to privacy; and a dynamic leader who will build the strength of our powerful grassroots presence across the country.
She served the people of Montana as a State Legislator and State Superintendent of Education and ran a strong campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2000. As Superintendent of Education, she brought Montana schools into the 21st Century with a focus on technology in the classroom and creating opportunities for distance learning. She also showed the force of her pro-choice commitment and the strength of her personal leadership when she stood up to a public effort to excommunicate her from the Catholic Church.
Prior to her 18-years holding state office Ms. Keenan taught special education for elementary school children with severe disabilities.
Working her way through college at a copper smelter, Ms. Keenan earned a Bachelors in Elementary Education from Montana State University. She also holds a Masters in Education Administration from the University of Montana. She has served as National President of the Council of Chief State School Officers as well as Chairwoman of the Council of Chief State School Officers Legislative Committee.