OutRight Action International announced the forthcoming departure of Executive Director Jessica Stern, who has been selected by the Biden administration to serve as Special Envoy for International LGBTQI Rights.
In a press release, the organization stated, "Stern, who became executive director in 2012, oversaw a period of extraordinary growth for OutRight. While OutRight laments Stern's departure, it celebrates the reestablishment of the role of Special Envoy and the Biden Administration's decision to appoint a globally recognized expert in the human rights of LGBTIQ people to this important position."
Stern said, "Serving as OutRight's executive director has been the honor of a lifetime. I can think of no organization that works with more integrity, more skillful staff, more motivated board members, more valued partners, or greater impact. After 11 years with OutRight, leaving will be bittersweet, but I know that the organization could not be stronger."
OutRight has long advocated for the position of US Special Envoy for International LGBTQI Rights. First held by now-Ambassador Randy Berry during the Obama administration, the special envoy is the most senior State Department official focused on the full and equal inclusion of LGBTIQ rights in U.S. foreign policy.
Stern's departure date from OutRight has not yet been set. OutRight's board will work in close coordination with Stern and the senior management team to ensure a seamless leadership transition in the coming weeks and months.