Gavin McKiernan

National Grassroots Director, Parents Television Council

Gavin McKiernan is the National Grassroots Director for the Parents Television Council (PTC), an advocacy group dedicated to protecting children from graphic sex, violence and profanity on television and in other media. In this position, Gavin directs a national network of more than 6,000 volunteers. He trains local leaders for grassroots chapters across the country and helps these volunteers to become active in their community.

Gavin successfully mobilized the PTC's membership to encourage state government officials to pass legislation restricting the sale of violent video games to minors. This effort has so far led to the passage of similar legislation in California, Illinois and Michigan, with more states expected to follow in the coming year.

Previously, Gavin worked for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. As Director of the Huntington Beach Boys and Girls Club, Gavin provided educational, athletic, and recreational programs daily for more than 300 children between the ages of 5 and 18. In 2003, Gavin and his staff were awarded the prestigious Honor Award for best overall Boys and Girls Club program in the nation. Prior to his work with the Boys and Girls Clubs, Gavin worked as a Program Instructor for the Close Up Foundation, where he taught civics and US government to high school students from across the country.

Gavin graduated from the Leadership Institute's Grassroots Activist School, and was selected as a McCabe Executive Leadership Fellow. He completed the Advanced Leadership Certificate Program at Clemson University and also graduated from the Neighborhood Leadership Program sponsored by the National Center for Community Justice.

Though he has lived in southern California for several years, Gavin was raised in Brooklyn, NY. He attended Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, graduating with a BS in Foreign Service, and continues to take an active part in his alma mater.

Gavin currently lives in Long Beach with his wife, two children, and two dogs.

The Parents Television Council - www.parentstv.org