Desai leaving Media Access for Consumers Union

Media Access Project (MAP) Vice President Parul Desai is leaving to join Consumers Union as policy counsel for media, telecom and technology policy.

The nonprofit consumer advocate publishes Consumer Reports and has advocated for decades for increased competition in the telecom industry on behalf of consumers. It also advocates on a host of other consumer issues, including product safety and financial reform.

Desai will serve as Consumers Union's lead advocate for issues such as broadband Internet access, net neutrality and media ownership. She will also work on behalf of consumers on "pocketbook issues" such as opposing the early-termination fees imposed by wireless companies.

"Telecom is an important priority for our organization, and Parul brings a wealth of experience to our team," said Ellen Bloom, director of federal policy for Consumers Union. "This is a critical time as the FCC considers a broad slate of issues that impact consumers. Parul’s extensive legal background and tireless work for consumers make her an ideal choice for this role, and we’re excited to welcome her on board."

Desai joined MAP in October 2005, where she worked as a legal advocate on wireless, broadband, digital radio and other communications technology issues. Prior to that she worked as in-house counsel at Microstrategy Inc. and as an associate at the law firm Crowell & Moring LLP. She graduated from Rutgers University and New York Law School, where she was a member of the New York Law School Law Review editorial board.

"In addition to her successes in legal advocacy, her dedication to building relationships with nationwide social service and civil rights organizations has had a direct, positive impact on the diversity of participation in media policymaking," said MAP President Tyrone Brown.

“Parul will be sorely missed here, but the pain is mitigated by the knowledge that she has chosen to remain a member of the public interest community. We look forward to working with her in the years to come as she continues her advocacy on behalf of the public," said Andrew Jay Schwartzman, MAP senior vice president and policy director.