Detroit -- The Michigan Catholic Conference, the church's public policy voice in the state of Michigan, today named Paul A. Long its next president and chief executive officer.

Long, who has served as the MCC's vice president for public policy since 1994, will succeed Sr. Monica Kostielney, RSM. Sr. Kostielney is retiring after having served for 16 years as the MCC's president and CEO. Long will assume the post on Nov. 15.

"For more than two decades Paul Long has presented to state government the Conference’s advocacy agenda with integrity and the utmost level of professionalism," said Detroit Archbishop Allen Vigneron in a news release issued today. "His years of service and commitment to the Church make him an exemplary candidate to lead the Conference into the next decade.

“Sr. Monica Kostielney for nearly forty years has been a tireless advocate for the poor and the unborn; a passionate and commanding voice on matters concerning education and economic justice," the archbishop continued. "Sr. Monica has directed the Conference with humility and grace.”

Long's selection was made by a unanimous vote from the conference's board of directors, which includes the bishops of Michigan's seven dioceses. Archbishop Vigneron is chairman of the MCC board.

“I am humbled today – and eagerly look forward to steering the Conference forward in its mission to develop sound public policy and administer benefit services with a dedication to integrity and excellence,” said Long in the release.

As the MCC's vice president for public policy, Long has worked on a number of legislative initiatives on behalf of the Church, including a ban on assisted suicide, the creation of a state earned income tax credit, and ushering through the Legislature the state’s ban on human cloning. He also has championed fair treatment for nonpublic schools, budget programs that assist the poor, and numerous initiatives that promote and protect human life, from conception to natural death.

More information on The Michigan Catholic Conference can be found at www.micatholicconference.org.