WOLA: Advocacy for Human Rights in the Americas
19 Apr 2016 | Commentary | News

WOLA’s Joy Olson: “It is time for me to pass the baton”

Dear friends,

When I was given the privilege of caring for this wonderful organization in 2003, I never intended to stay at WOLA for 13 years. After much thought, I have decided that it is time for me to pass the baton on to another incredibly fortunate individual.

WOLA’s Board of Directors will be announcing today that I will leave WOLA at the end of 2016. I wanted to make sure I told you in my own words because so many of you have been supportive of me and of WOLA these past years.

I love this place. WOLA works with some of the best people in the hemisphere. We stand with brave people who are confronting organized crime, trying to solve the problem of violence, and making all of our governments more respectful of human rights.

The best part about being the Executive Director of WOLA is that you see a problem or an injustice and you have the ability to do something about it. You have a place from which to act. After 13 years it is time to explore new possibilities for myself, yet I’ll always remember how fortunate I’ve been to hold this position.

WOLA is in a solid position with brilliant staff, an excellent Board of Directors, and a solid funding base. Be assured that I will do my best over the course of 2016 to craft a smooth leadership transition that will help the organization flourish long into the future.

Since its founding over 40 years ago, WOLA has been a dynamic organization. While staying committed to its mission of advocating human rights and social justice in the Americas, it has also embraced change.

After 13 years at the helm, I believe that it is time for a change in leadership, which I am confident will produce great things for the future of this organization.

While I don’t know what is next for me personally, I look forward to figuring it out and to staying in touch with you! Thank you for your past and ongoing support.

All the best,

Joy Olson