The Guttmacher Institute's Board of Directors and acting CEO Jonathan Wittenberg are pleased to announce the appointment of Destiny Lopez as acting co-CEO.    

With a combined 45 years of experience in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), Wittenberg and Lopez will guide the Institute through a pivotal year for abortion access, contraceptive coverage, and many other crucial issues.   

“Jonathan and I are thrilled to welcome Destiny as Acting Co-CEO of the Institute,” said Pamela Merritt, Chair of the Board. “We feel that co-leadership will put Guttmacher in the best position to tackle the immense challenges to SRHR in the next year, and we can’t think of a better partner for this moment than Destiny.”   

Wittenberg and Lopez bring complementary skills, shared values, and an aligned vision for SRHR supported by Guttmacher’s high-quality research, evidence-based advocacy, and strategic communications. Wittenberg's 19 years of institutional knowledge and leadership at Guttmacher, paired with Lopez's over two decades in the domestic SRHR movement, form a powerful partnership.   

Lopez is a respected advocate with a proven track record of cultivating meaningful partnerships and leading transformative policy campaigns. Meanwhile, Wittenberg's deep understanding of Guttmacher's work, relationships with partners, and experience mobilizing resources to support innovative programs ensures stability and strategic insight.   

Both leaders have agreed to serve as Acting Co-CEOs for one year. Lopez will assume her role on February 26.