Electronic Frontier Foundation Announces Executive Director Transition, Launches Search for Successor
The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a leading nonprofit defending civil liberties in the digital world, today announced that Executive Director Cindy Cohn will be stepping down after a decade in the role, and 35 years with the institution. A search is now underway to find her replacement, signaling a pivotal moment for the digital rights champion.
This transition comes as EFF continues to navigate an increasingly complex landscape of threats to online privacy, free speech, and innovation. Cohn, who previously served as Legal director, will remain with the organization through early summer to ensure a smooth handover.
A legacy of Digital Rights Advocacy
Cindy Cohn’s tenure has been transformative for EFF. under her leadership, the organization has solidified its position as the premier defender of digital rights, not just in the United States, but globally.
“Simply put, Cindy Cohn is an EFF institution,” stated Gigi Sohn, chair of EFF’s board of Directors. “Her leadership has driven tremendous growth, cementing our role at the forefront of protecting your digital freedoms.”
Cohn’s impact extends beyond organizational growth. She’s been instrumental in shaping the conversation around critical issues like:
* Digital Privacy: fighting against mass surveillance and advocating for strong encryption.
* Free Speech Online: Defending against censorship and protecting online expression.
* Innovation: Championing open access and challenging restrictions on technological advancement.
The Search for the Next Leader
The EFF Board of Directors has formed a dedicated search committee and partnered with Russell Reynolds Associates, a leading leadership advisory firm, to identify Cohn’s successor. This rigorous process aims to find an individual who can build upon Cohn’s legacy and guide EFF through its next chapter.
Interested in learning more or submitting a nomination? Inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
The committee anticipates naming a new Executive Director next spring. This timeline allows for a thorough evaluation of candidates and a thorough onboarding process.
Industry-Wide Recognition
The respect for Cindy Cohn extends far beyond the walls of EFF. Leaders across the digital rights landscape have lauded her contributions:
* Mitch Kapor, EFF Co-Founder: “Cindy has been a huge part of EFF’s history and growth. The organization simply wouldn’t be where it is today without her strong,compassionate leadership.”
* Ben Wizner, ACLU Deputy Legal Director: “Cindy is a visionary lawyer and leader who has helped make EFF the world’s foremost digital rights organization. She’s also been a mentor to so many of us.”
* Alexandra Reeve Givens, CDT President & CEO: “Her visionary leadership has pushed the field forward, championing the rights of individual users and innovators. Cindy’s legacy is a foundation for the next generation of digital rights defenders.”
Looking Ahead
As EFF embarks on this leadership transition, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to defending your rights in the digital world. The search for a new Executive Director represents an opportunity to strengthen EFF’s impact and continue its vital work.
You can learn more about Cindy Cohn and her remarkable career at: https://www.eff.org/about/staff/cindy-cohn
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