Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops Announces Staff Promotions

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (FCCB) is pleased to announce the promotion of three staff members, reflecting the organization’s commitment to developing and advancing strong lay leadership within the Catholic Church.

Joseph Harmon has been promoted to Associate for Public Policy after serving at the coordinator level for the past year. In his new role, Harmon will continue advising on key public policy issues related to human life and dignity, including the death penalty, affordable housing, corrections and education. His responsibilities include researching and reviewing legislative proposals, assisting with policy development and providing testimony before legislative committees on behalf of the FCCB. Harmon holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Science in Education from Rutgers University, as well as a Doctorate in History from Florida State University.

Mary Camp has been promoted from Associate Director for Accreditation to Director of Accreditation. Camp has served the Conference since 2010 and oversees the administration of its school accreditation program. Established in 1969, the Florida Catholic Conference Accreditation Program is one of the oldest and most comprehensive Catholic accrediting programs in the country, accrediting more than 250 early childhood, elementary, secondary and special education schools and/or programs. Camp also contributes to the FCCB’s education-related public policy work. In addition, she serves as the President of the Florida Association of Academic Nonpublic Schools and is the Past President of the National Council on Private School Accreditation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Miami University in Ohio and a Master of Education from the University of Dayton.

Michele Taylor has been promoted from Associate Director for Communications to Director of Communications. Taylor has served the Conference since 2004 and has led its communications initiatives since 2007. She has built and strengthened a strategic communications program that promotes the FCCB's goals and objectives, supports policy priorities and equips Catholics across Florida to engage in civic life. Taylor earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a Bachelor of Science in Audiology and Speech Sciences from Purdue University. 

These three staff members will continue to serve under the direction of Executive Director Michael Sheedy.

“We are delighted to recognize Joe, Mary and Michele for their exceptional dedication and leadership,” said Sheedy. “Each brings invaluable expertise to the Conference’s efforts to advance the Church’s mission in the public square and promote the common good for all Floridians.”