Dear fellow Wikimedians,
I came to Wikimedia 3.5 years ago to build our global advocacy profile, transform our legal team to further support the Foundation’s global ambitions, partner with the Board to reform its Governance practices, and ensure that the Foundation was ready to meet regulatory requirements arising across the world. I am very proud of how much of this has been accomplished, even in the midst of significant organizational change and transition.
When Maryana joined in January, I began a long-term conversation with her about how I could set her up for success as our new CEO, while also identifying a capable successor for the General Counsel role. We have been working on this plan together for the past year so that I could oversee a robust succession plan while also planning ahead for more time to begin exploring my next adventure. As you know, we appointed Stephen LaPorte as Deputy General Counsel in July. He will succeed me as the Foundation’s next General Counsel on February 1, 2023.
I am so excited about the chapter ahead for all of us, and for the role that Wikimedia has to play in advancing the mission of free knowledge and open access across the world. When I reflect back on my time at the Foundation, I am proud of so many things:
- In late 2020, I was asked by the Board of Trustees to provide leadership at a critical time for the organization and to help us navigate our path forward. This period for the transition team was rewarding and challenging, but it certainly took its toll! - Growing our global advocacy team from a mention in the medium-term plan into a small and very mighty team. - We commissioned the first Human rights impact assessment, developed a Human Rights policy & responded to several situations with real-world implications. - Numerous Litigation fights and victories. - Supporting the board of trustees in their own journey to optimize their governance of the Foundation.
It has been an honor to serve and lead our amazing Legal team. Though my role will shift, I will continue to be a Wikimedian, cheering the movement on toward future success because the world needs us now more than ever!
In solidarity, Amanda (she/they) General Counsel, Wikimedia Foundation