Sister Simone Campbell

Sister Simone Campbell is an American Catholic religious sister, lawyer, and lobbyist, best known for her role as the executive director of NETWORK from 2004 onwards. Her tenure at NETWORK is marked by her continuous advocacy for social justice, a commitment that has defined her career and public life. Campbell's work in the legal field is also noteworthy, having founded the Community Law Center in Oakland, California, where she served as its lead attorney for 18 years.

During her time at NETWORK, Campbell notably penned the "nuns' letter" in support of healthcare reforms in 2010, a significant contribution that led to her invitation to the signing ceremony for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Campbell's leadership extended beyond the confines of the office. She launched the Nuns on the Bus project, an initiative highlighting social issues, particularly the work of nuns with the poor. Her work garnered recognition, leading to her receiving the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award in 2014.

Aside from her work at NETWORK, Campbell has made her mark in the political sphere, having addressed the Democratic National Convention in 2012 and 2020. Her contributions to social justice were acknowledged when she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden in 2022. In her book "A Nun on the Bus: How All of Us Can Create Hope, Change, and Community," Campbell shares her experiences and insights, further demonstrating her commitment to social justice. Her public appearances on shows like the Tavis Smiley Show and Democracy Now, and her speech at the Vatican criticizing "male power," further emphasize her influential role as a speaker and advocate.