People 6/11

Eric Bagwell has joined as vice president, education and innovation policy, reporting to evp, government affairs Shelley Husband. Previously Bagwell worked for Intel Corporation on issues of IP and technology policy and was on the policy staff of the House Judiciary Committee.

Director of enterprise transformation Carolyn Pittis is promoted to vp, digital operations, with directors Dorothy Bara, Melissa Mathlin, and Julie Rodriguez reporting to her. She will also help build HBG’s capabilities to harness technology and process improvement initiatives.

Juli Kiyan has been promoted to deputy publicity director.

Eileen Dengler, executive director of NAIBA and president of the professional booksellers school, is retiring at the end of 2026. Dengler started her career in the book industry at the American Booksellers Association in 1984.

Julia Borcherts has launched a boutique literary PR and marketing agency for authors and publishers. She was previously at Kaye Publicity for almost 11 years.

Catherine Phelan moves into the new role of vp, audience, creating a unified approach to audience growth and engagement for the Content Affinity audiences and Early Bird Books email audiences.

The 14th annual Book Group Speed Dating event convenes virtually on Friday, June 13 from 1 PM to 1:45 ET. Representatives from eight publishers will give booksellers, librarians and book group leaders an inside look at new and upcoming titles. Advance signup is required.