Lafayette’s own Dr. Kevin Roberts has been appointed the new president of the Washington, D.C.-based Heritage Foundation, the most broadly-supported public policy organization in the country. Founded in 1973, Heritage has been a strong voice in Washington for the principles of free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional American values, and a strong national defense.

Dr. Roberts is the founder of John Paul the Great Academy in Lafayette and former president of the Wyoming Catholic College. More recently, he’s been advancing freedom and free enterprise next door to us, serving as CEO of the Texas Public Policy Foundation.

More here from the Heritage Foundation’s official release:

“Since last spring, Heritage’s Board of Trustees has been searching for a leader who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to Heritage’s mission and the conservative principles that guide our research,” said Barb Van Andel-Gaby, chairman of Heritage’s Board of Trustees. “After looking at candidates from across the country and throughout the conservative movement, one person truly stood out: Heritage’s trustees have unanimously elected Dr. Kevin Roberts as our next president.

“While there were many outstanding candidates we interviewed during the search process, Kevin was the best choice to lead The Heritage Foundation at this pivotal time in our nation’s history. Kevin has an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep enthusiasm for conservative solutions, and he will bring with him a different perspective as a D.C. outsider.

“Kevin’s natural leadership talents and commitment to our mission make him the right fit for Heritage. He will ensure that our unprecedented influence on Capitol Hill continues, and he shares our belief that Heritage must lead not only conservatives—but America—with a positive vision for the future.”

On a personal note, I’m honored to call Kevin a close friend, and I’m thrilled for this new opportunity. Texas’s (and Louisiana’s) loss is the nation’s gain, and never has the country needed a leader of Kevin’s caliber driving change in our nation’s capital. The entire Pelican team sends congratulations and best wishes to our friend and colleague on this new adventure!