The American Land Title Association (ALTA), the national trade association of the land title insurance industry, announces the appointment of Leah Shimp Vass as Director of Grassroots and Political Affairs.

In her new role, Shimp Vass will be responsible for two components of ALTA’s advocacy efforts: developing political action committee (PAC) strategy and mobilizing grassroots activities. She will work closely with Senior Director of Government Affairs Elizabeth Blosser to enhance strategic planning, growth and operations of the Title Industry Political Action Committee, Title Action Network and the Congressional Liaison Program.

“Leah brings almost 20 years of experience in government relations, PAC strategy and grassroots growth,” said Chris Morton, ALTA’s senior vice president of public affairs. “Her previous success in fundraising as well as her understanding of what it takes to develop top tier advocates will be a huge asset in her new role. We are so excited to have her on the ALTA team.”

Shimp Vass previously served three years as associate director, government relations, for the International Franchise Association, where she created the association’s first candidate-endorsement program. She also has held positions in government relations with CIT Group Inc., U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley’s office, the U.S. Senate Finance Committee Republican Staff and the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee.

“I am so happy to join the ALTA team and advocate in front of Washington, D.C., policymakers for the needs of title industry professionals as well as homebuyers across the nation,” Shimp Vass said. “I look forward to working with ALTA members as well as the rest of the ALTA team, especially as I see how both groups have joined together to ensure the industry continues to protect the property rights of homeowners and provide peace of mind during real estate transactions, even in the midst of a worldwide pandemic.”

Shimp Vass earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.