13:I[2754,["2972","static/chunks/2972-6f5d56019c5c6a42.js","3868","static/chunks/app/tags/%5Bid%5D/page-e0de42c5bec059fc.js"],"default",1] 14:I[8387,["2972","static/chunks/2972-6f5d56019c5c6a42.js","3868","static/chunks/app/tags/%5Bid%5D/page-e0de42c5bec059fc.js"],"default",1] 16:I[2972,["2972","static/chunks/2972-6f5d56019c5c6a42.js","3868","static/chunks/app/tags/%5Bid%5D/page-e0de42c5bec059fc.js"],""] 15:T6d2,

Suzanne Nossel, the chief executive officer of PEN America, has announced her departure from the prominent free speech and literary organization after serving in the role for nearly 12 years. Her decision comes at a time when the organization faces significant challenges and controversy.

Under Nossel's leadership, PEN America expanded its influence and scope, becoming a leading voice in battles over book bans, academic freedom, and artistic expression. The organization grew substantially during her tenure, increasing its staff from about a dozen to over 90 employees and expanding its annual budget to approximately $20 million.

However, recent months have brought challenges for the organization, including criticism over its stance on various free speech issues, particularly regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. PEN America faced internal tensions and external scrutiny over its positions on these matters, leading to debates about its role in addressing complex geopolitical issues while maintaining its core mission of protecting free expression.

Nossel, who will remain in her position through spring 2024 to ensure a smooth transition, has been both praised for modernizing the organization and criticized by some who questioned certain organizational positions during her tenure. Her departure marks a significant moment of transition for PEN America as it continues to navigate contemporary challenges to free speech and literary freedom.

The organization's board of trustees will conduct a search for Nossel's successor, who will inherit the task of leading PEN America through an

Suzanne Nossel on FusePop