For Immediate Release
May 4, 2016

Contact: Kristina Romines
Phone: (202) 265-2405 ext 333
kromines@siecus.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) is excited to announce that, as of May 2016, Chitra Panjabi will serve as SIECUS’ president and CEO. The organization engaged in a search seeking a bold leader to carry out our mission of creating a sexually healthy nation.

SIECUS Board Chair, Stephen T. Russell, on the appointment of Panjabi: “Chitra brings a vision of intersectional social justice to SIECUS, along with remarkable expertise in communications, development, and organizational management. We are thrilled to have Chitra lead SIECUS.”

Panjabi is an intersectional feminist advocate with a professional background in nonprofit management and fundraising. She joins SIECUS having previously served as vice president membership for the National Organization for Women (NOW). While at NOW, Panjabi was responsible for managing operations, communications, fundraising, and membership engagement. Under her tenure, she increased NOW’s membership by nearly a third in a single year, led the most successful end-of-year online campaign and implemented multiyear strategic planning.

Panjabi holds a bachelor’s degree from King’s College London, a master’s degree in international journalism from City University, London and a master’s degree in women’s studies from The George Washington University. Born and raised in Hong Kong to Indian immigrants, she spent her formative years in Asia and another five years in London before moving to Washington, D.C. in 2008.

“I’m proud to be leading SIECUS as we strive to reshape cultural and societal narratives around sexuality. With an intersectional vision we can do the essential work of addressing the impact of sexual stigma and shame on individuals across age, race, gender, gender identity and expression, class, sexual orientation, and ability,” Panjabi said. “By breaking down barriers that prevent access to sexuality education and sexual health care, we can promote the acceptance of our whole selves and lead sexually healthy lives.”

Over the coming weeks and months, SIECUS will continue its longstanding collaboration with the many colleague organizations, foundation partners, and individuals who have contributed to the organization’s success, while also forging new partnerships toward creating a sexually healthy nation.

“This next chapter of SIECUS’ storied history will ensure the sexual health and rights of all for generations to come,” said Panjabi.

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SIECUS affirms that sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, one that is worthy of dignity and respect. We advocate for the right of all people to accurate information, comprehensive education about sexuality, and sexual health services. SIECUS works to create a world that ensures social justice and sexual rights.