Meet JRLC's New Executive Director

My name is Melissa DeBilzan, and I'm honored to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Joint Religious Legislative Coalition (JRLC). I look forward to partnering with you as we build on JRLC's long history of advocating for the common good.

As many of you know, our former Executive Director, Leah Patton, recently stepped down to attend law school. We're grateful for Leah's leadership and wish her all the best in this next chapter.

I come to JRLC with a background in nonprofit leadership, public policy, advocacy, and coalition building. Over the next few months, I'll be listening and learning from our partners, advocates, and community members as we prepare for the 2027 legislative session.

Our team will be watching the fall elections closely and identifying policy priorities rooted in JRLC's three pillars: promoting the dignity of life, family economic security and well-being, and meaningful participation in civic life.

Keep an eye out for concrete ways to participate — whether that's joining us for Day on the Hill (details coming soon!) or contacting your legislators when your voice matters most. 

Working collaboratively, JRLC has accomplished so much in past sessions. We're eager to have an even greater impact in the near future.

I'd love to connect with you — if you'd like to chat, reply to this email or feel free to reach out any time.

With gratitude,

Melissa DeBilzan
Interim Executive Director
Joint Religious Legislative Coalition
[email protected] · jrlc.org