Dear Mazzoni Center Community,

It is with mixed emotions that I announce the resignation of our President and Executive Officer, Sultan Shakir, effective March 31, 2025. On behalf of the entire board, I want to thank Sultan for his contributions to the Mazzoni Center and the Philadelphia LGBTQ community at large.

Under Sultan's leadership, the Mazzoni Center has seen many improvements including securing our status as a Federally Qualified Health Center – Look-Alike (FQHC-LAL), the elimination of our waiting list, expansion of our behavioral health services, and a significant increase in grant and philanthropic contributions enabling us to expand our programs and outreach. His commitment to our mission, staff, community, and the patients we serve are very much appreciated and we wish him all the best as he relocates back to Washington, DC with his husband, their dogs, and chosen family.

I am also pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Trowell, Board Secretary, as Interim President and Executive Officer. Simon brings nearly four decades of healthcare leadership experience to the role most recently having served as Vice President, Quality, Capability & Risk Management at GSK Research & Development. His extensive experience as a member of the Mazzoni Board of Directors Executive Committee coupled with his global healthcare leadership experience make him the ideal candidate to lead the organization during this interim period.

We are confident that Simon's extensive experience and leadership skills will guide the Mazzoni Center through this transition period and continue to build on the strong foundation laid by Sultan. Simon and Sultan will work together over the next several weeks to ensure a smooth transition.

The board will soon begin a national search for a permanent President and Executive Officer and will share more details about that process in the near future.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our mission.

Sincerely, 

Jeffrey N. Doucette, DNP, RN, FAAN