Two Association Chiefs Leaving

Two of the nations biggest and most influential Washington-based trade associations will get new leaders this year. Former 12-term Congressman Don Fuqua (D, Fla.) has announced he will retire sometime during the year as president of the Aerospace Industries Assn. (AIA) after a 10-year stint. And at the Health Insurance Assn. of America (HIAA), another former representative, Willis D. (Bill) Gradison (R, Ohio) says hell step down at yearend as president. HIAA, which has been a major voice in the health-care-reform debate, already has announced Gradisons successor. Hes Charles N. Kahn III, who is leaving as staff director of the health subcommittee of the House Ways & Means Committee to become the associations president-elect and chief operating officer. AIA, meanwhile, has named a search committee to pick Fuquas replacement.