Phoenix, AZ - Arizona Republican Party Chairman Randy Pullen today announced that he has named Michelle Schmitt as Finance Director for the AZGOP.

“Michelle comes to the AZGOP with a wealth of organizational skills and fundraising prowess,” said Chairman Pullen. “She will be an outstanding asset for us as we move forward with our aggressive plans to raise money for Arizona Republicans. While our contribution levels are ahead of where they were two years ago, Michelle will only enhance and streamline our effort.”

“Michelle has a proven track record of developing successful fundraising campaigns,” said Brett Mecum, Executive Director of the Arizona Republican Party. “Her experience will enable us to implement our strategic fundraising plans which provide the financial foundation for next year’s elections. Michelle being named as Finance Director is a fantastic addition to our dynamic team at the AZGOP, and I expect that she will do a great job.”

“The Arizona Republican Party has always been able to raise money for Republicans around the state,” said Ms. Schmitt. “And this election cycle will be no exception. We have planned a bold and vigorous schedule of events, personal appeals and a targeted approach of fundraising which will bolster our campaign accounts. With more and more Arizonans being concerned with what is going on in Washington, I feel that our contribution levels will exceed our high expectations.”

A graduate of the University of Arizona, Ms. Schmitt recently served as Lead Advance Representative for Mrs. Cindy McCain and was responsible for advanced planning and organization of daily campaign events and speeches for Senator and Mrs. McCain. Prior to her work on the Presidential election campaign, Michelle worked as the Assistant Director of Development at Xavier College Preparatory where she devised and executed a comprehensive annual giving program, raising $650,000 from constituents through direct marketing, electronic communications, and special events.