WASHINGTON-Gretchen Graf has been promoted from CUNA's grassroots manager to director of grassroots and political involvement. In making the announcement, CUNA explained that the new title better reflects Graf's role in expanding the trade association's political programs. Graf has been responsible for such innovative programs as the Hike the Hills and Project Zip Code. In 2003, more than 45 Hikes were organized and, to date, over 45 million credit union members have been identified through Project Zip Code. "The programs for which Gretchen is responsible have experienced remarkable growth, due in large measure to her hard work and attention to detail. It is only appropriate that Gretchen's title reflects that forward momentum," CUNA Senior Vice President of Governmental Affairs John McKechnie said. Prior to joining CUNA in 2000, Graf was a political outreach coordinator for the National Restaurant Association. She earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Montana State University in 1996.