CHATSWORTH, CA – The Free Speech Coalition (FSC) announced today that Tom Hymes has resigned as Communications Director for the FSC, stepping down from the position after a little over a year in order to “pursue other opportunities.”“It has been an absolute privilege to work for FSC for the past year,” said Hymes in a statement released by the FSC. “I am so proud of what we have accomplished during this tumultuous time for the industry. I have nothing but respect for my colleagues at FSC, and for the many members of the adult community who have stepped up to assist us.”

According to the FSC release, Hymes will continue to assist the Coalition in various ways, but until a replacement is named, Hymes’ official responsibilities as Communications Director will be covered by Executive Director Michelle Freridge, Legislative Affairs Director Kat Sunlove and Director of Membership and Services Scott Lowther.

“Tom’s insight into the online segment of the industry helped FSC reach out to and improve our services for webmasters and many other online members,” stated Freridge in the release. “After only fourteen months of hard work, Tom leaves FSC with a legacy of industry respect and confidence in this trade association that is well deserved.”

Since being named Communications Director last year, Hymes had been the primary point of contact for all media sources, and oversaw FSC publications and the redesign of the FSC website. During his tenure, Hymes has been interviewed by the mainstream media on dozens of occasions, spoken on numerous seminars and panels and traveled to New Zealand to lobby ICANN against the establishment of the .XXX TLD.

Although his time as Communications Director has ended, Hymes said he remains “100% dedicated to the mission of FSC and have made clear to Michelle and the Board that I will continue to help in any way I can, for as long as I can.”