The Boards of Directors of Compassion & Choices and the Compassion & Choices Action Network today announced the appointment of Kevin Díaz as President & CEO, effective immediately. Díaz has served as the organizations’ Interim CEO since September 2024 while continuing in his role as Chief Legal Advocacy Officer, a position he has held since 2016.
A nationally recognized civil rights attorney and expert in end-of-life care policy, Díaz brings deep experience in healthcare reform, legislative advocacy, and strategic litigation. His appointment marks a moment of renewed energy and clarity for the movement to ensure that every person can chart their own end-of-life journey.
“The Board is absolutely thrilled to name Kevin Díaz as our next President & CEO,” said Jerri Shaw, Chair of the Board of Directors of Compassion & Choices. “Kevin’s leadership reflects the vision, values, and momentum we need to drive this movement forward. Over the past year, he has demonstrated exactly the kind of clarity, collaboration, and strategic focus that inspires confidence—and delivers results. We are excited for this next chapter under his guidance, and deeply grateful to our dedicated staff who have helped make it possible.”
As Chief Legal Advocacy Officer, Díaz has helped lead efforts to authorize medical aid in dying in multiple states, defend patients’ rights in landmark court cases, and ensure that end-of-life care honors individual values and autonomy. His interim tenure was marked by strategic collaboration, organizational stability, and record-setting donor support.
“This is a moment of both celebration and recommitment,” said David Cook, Chair of the Board of the Compassion & Choices Action Network. “Kevin brings not only legal and policy expertise, but a justice-first mindset essential to our work. His leadership ensures continuity, credibility, and momentum at a time when our mission is more urgent than ever.”
Under Díaz’s leadership, the organizations are charting a bold agenda for the year ahead, including expanded legal advocacy, stronger partnerships in newly authorized states like Delaware, and deeper community engagement. Recent fundraising achievements—including a double-digit increase over the previous year—underscore the strength of the movement and the public’s belief in its future.
“This work is about shifting power back to individuals and the people who love them—so they can make deeply personal decisions on their own terms,” said Kevin Díaz, President & CEO. “I’m honored to walk this next stretch with our incredible team and allies. Together, we’ll build a future where everyone has access to the end-of-life experience they want and deserve – patient-directed, fully informed, and free from unnecessary suffering or interference.”
Díaz previously served as Legal Director for the ACLU of Oregon and has over 25 years of legal advocacy experience advancing civil rights, expanding access to justice, and empowering community-based organizations. He holds degrees from the University of Oregon and the University of Washington School of Law.
Compassion & Choices
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