November 17, 2019
Association of American Publishers Names Cara Duckworth Vice President, Communications
Washington, DC, November 18, 2019 – The Association of American Publishers (AAP) announced today that Cara Duckworth has been appointed Vice President, Communications. Ms. Duckworth joins AAP from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), where she worked from 2007-2019, most recently as Senior Vice-President, Communications. She will report to John McKay, AAP’s Senior Vice President of Communications, in Washington, DC.
“Cara has a tremendous skill set in communications strategy, content policy, creative design, and special projects,” said Maria A. Pallante, AAP President and CEO. “I am excited about all that she brings to our AAP community and all that she will contribute.”
During her 12-year tenure with RIAA, Ms. Duckworth worked closely with member record labels and policy makers, managing an extensive portfolio that included media relations, social media, data and research, and the famous Gold & Platinum Awards program. Her communications work was central to the success of the Music Modernization Act, the landmark music licensing legislation that was signed into law last year.
Earlier in her career, Ms. Duckworth served as Director of Communications at the Motion Picture Association of America. She held two positions with the U.S. Senate, as press secretary for the Senate Budget Committee and deputy press secretary for the Assistant Majority Leader Don Nickles, respectively.
“With her extensive background at two leading trade groups and on Capitol Hill, Cara brings experience, execution, and enthusiasm to the AAP,” commented John McKay. “She will be a great partner as we advocate for and celebrate the U.S. publishing industry.”
Said Ms. Duckworth, "Published works are the bedrock of culture, education, and scientific progress. As an avid reader, I am proud and excited to join AAP and help showcase the many innovative ways the modern publishing industry enhances our daily lives."
Cara Duckworth holds a BA in communications from DePauw University, where she was an All-American field hockey player.
About AAP
AAP represents the leading book, journal, and education publishers on matters of law and policy, advocating for outcomes that incentivize the publication of creative expression, professional content, and learning solutions. As essential participants in local markets and the global economy, our members invest in and inspire the exchange of ideas, transforming the world we live in one word at a time.