PEN America Appoints Summer Lopez and Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf as Co-CEOs

PEN America has officially appointed Summer Lopez and Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf as its permanent co-Chief Executive Officers, following their interim leadership since November 2024. This decision, announced on January 26, 2026, comes after a period of significant scrutiny regarding the organization's response to the Israel-Hamas conflict and other pressing issues related to free expression. Dinaw Mengestu, president of PEN's board of trustees, emphasized their commitment to defending writers and free expression, stating, “Summer and Clarisse have been the guiding force behind PEN America’s extraordinary literary programming and robust defense of free expression.”

KARE11Pen AmericaNew York Times

Lopez and Rosaz Shariyf have extensive backgrounds within PEN America, having joined the organization in 2017 and 2015, respectively. Lopez previously served as the Chief Program Officer for free expression, while Rosaz Shariyf led the literary programming. Their leadership comes at a critical time when PEN America faces challenges such as book bans, online harassment, and threats to academic freedom in the United States.

KARE11New York TimesPen America

In a joint interview, Lopez and Rosaz Shariyf articulated their mission to staunchly defend writers and free expression amid escalating threats. Lopez remarked, “PEN America is not going to do that. We are going to speak up, we’re going to call out what is happening and we will keep fighting back.” They aim to revitalize PEN America’s programming and strengthen its advocacy efforts, particularly in light of recent controversies that have affected its visibility and operations.

Pen America

During their interim tenure, Lopez and Rosaz Shariyf revitalized PEN America’s programming and fundraising efforts, successfully staging flagship events such as the Literary Awards and World Voices Festival, which had faced boycotts in 2024. They also released nine original research reports addressing issues like cultural repression in countries including Iran, Gaza, and China. Their initiatives included conducting digital safety trainings for journalists and distributing grants through the U.S. Writers Emergency Fund.

Pen America

Despite their achievements, PEN America has faced criticism regarding its handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Some stakeholders have expressed concerns over the organization's responses to international crises, suggesting that its advocacy may not always align with the expectations of its diverse membership.

Pen America

Tracy Higgins, vice president of the board and chair of the Executive Committee, expressed confidence in Lopez and Rosaz Shariyf’s leadership, highlighting their deep mission knowledge and crisis management skills. “They are highly respected in the free expression and literary communities,” Higgins stated. Additionally, former president Jennifer Finney Boylan praised their commitment to placing writers at the heart of PEN America’s mission.

Pen America

Looking ahead, Lopez and Rosaz Shariyf are focused on shaping a strategic vision that aligns with PEN America’s core values while addressing the growing threats to free expression. They plan to foster collaboration with partners and ensure that the organization remains a vital advocate for writers and free speech in an increasingly challenging landscape.

Pen America

• “Summer Lopez said: “We are in a moment of emergency for free expression and for democracy.” — Summer Lopez, Co-CEO of PEN America

Pen America

• “ Both Lopez and Rosaz Shariyf emphasized: “Absolutely none of this work would be possible without our talented and dedicated staff, and the support of our remarkable board of trustees.” — Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf, Co-CEO of PEN America

Pen America

• “Their fearless leadership has strengthened the fight for the freedom of authors and readers, here and around the world.” — Jennifer Finney Boylan, Former President of PEN America

Pen America