Letter from WGNRR Board: Farewell to ED Kathy Mulville
Dear members, allies, colleagues, and friends of WGNRR,
After eight years at WGNRR, our Executive Director Kathy Mulville, is stepping down from her position at the end of September 2017. She successfully led the WGNRR team through transition from the Netherlands to the Philippines, expanding the organisation through the establishment of offices and presence in other regions, such as Africa (Tanzania) and Latin America (Mexico). Under Kathy’s leadership, WGNRR has flourished in its mission and vision with the globalisation of September 28th, Global Day of Action for Safe and Legal Abortion, and May 28th, International Day of Action for Women’s Health; built strong partnerships with sister organisations and networks including the Latin American and Caribbean Women’s Health Network, the International Community of Women Living with HIV, and the Women Human Rights Defenders International Coalition; established a number of abortion advocacy networks in different regions; and advocated for sexual and reproductive rights globally at the United Nations and in other forums. Her dedication to sexual and reproductive health and rights, and indefatigable energy will be sorely missed.
It is testament to Kathy’s directorship that she leaves behind a strong and capable team at WGNRR. As part of the leadership transition between August and end September, the WGNRR Board will provide organizational leadership and guidance, with Jeanette Slootbeek taking on key coordinating responsibilities in the interim. Jeanette, an independent SRHR consultant, brings with her numerous years of SRHR leadership and experience. WGNRR’s Advocacy Manager Lara Cousins- whom many of you will know and have worked with over the years- will also be taking on additional management responsibilities. Over the years, Lara has played a central role in overseeing WGNRR’s advocacy work at national, regional, and global levels; delivering campaigns in coordination with WGNRR staff and partners; and in implementing capacity-strengthening initiatives with WGNRR member organizations globally. Jeanette and Lara will be supported by Kathy and the WGNRR Board in the transition and handover period.
The WGNRR Board has recently concluded the recruitment of new board members, and will begin recruitment for the post of Executive Director shortly. We look forward to your continued support and ally ship over the coming months.
Please join us in wishing Kathy the very best, and we will be following her new adventures as the Business Partnership Director with the Australian government’s Investing in Women’s programme!
Warm wishes,
The WGNRR Board
Felistah Mbithe, Kenya
Jeanette Slootbeek, Netherlands
Nirvana Gonzalez Rosa, Puerto Rico
Rishita Nandagiri, India
Yvette Kathurima, Kenya