"As the president of Oxfam America, and on behalf of all of our staff, I extend my deepest congratulations to Oxfam International Executive Director Winnie Byanyima for her newly appointed role as the Executive Director of the UN program on HIV/AIDS.
Over the past seven years at Oxfam, Winnie has brought vision, conviction and an undeniable sense of fearless justice to her work to end global poverty. She has championed women’s rights and leadership, ending inequality, and demonstrated unshakable commitment to the dignity of the people everywhere to make the world a better, more just and equitable place for all. In my two years of working closely with her, I have seen and benefited first-hand from her efforts to shape and lead Oxfam in ways that will make us a stronger organization for years to come.
I know that her decision to make this change is a personal and important one given the loss of her brother to AIDS, and the loss of many of her friends, relatives and colleagues in Africa where AIDS in still an unacceptable epidemic. This position is truly an honor and a testament to Winnie's incredible leadership in the sector.
Although we will miss her leadership at Oxfam, we know we will all benefit from Winnie’s leadership and partnership in the effort to end one of the greatest causes of poverty, suffering and injustice in the world."