Essential Access Health Announces Leadership Evolution at a Pivotal Moment for Reproductive Justice

Los Angeles, CA – At a pivotal moment for reproductive health, Essential Access Health (Essential Access) today announced a leadership evolution to strengthen its ability to advance access to care amid escalating policy threats, funding uncertainty, and growing community need.

Following a period of growth and expanded national impact, the Board of Directors has transitioned to a single CEO structure, naming Nomsa Khalfani, PhD, as Chief Executive Officer. Over the past four years, the co-CEO model supported Essential Access as it strengthened policy and advocacy leadership, broadened its geographic reach across California and Hawai‘i and nationally, and deepened a values-driven leadership team. Unified leadership positions the organization to respond with clarity, speed, and focus as it advances its mission in an increasingly complex environment.

Amy Moy, who joined Essential Access in 2011 and has served as Co-CEO since 2022, will transition out of the organization at the end of March following nearly fifteen years of leadership. Moy helped establish Essential Access as a leading voice in protecting and expanding sexual and reproductive health care and guided the organization through one of the most consequential periods in the field.

“Essential Access was built for moments like this,” said Raniyah Copeland, Board Co-Chair. “As the landscape grows more complex and urgent, this leadership evolution ensures we are positioned to move with clarity and speed. Nomsa is a visionary, values-driven leader whose experience and steadfast commitment to justice prepare her to guide Essential Access through this next chapter.”

“The co-CEO model brought Essential Access to a position of strength and readiness,” said David Sun-Miyashiro, Board Co-Chair. “As the stakes for reproductive health continue to rise, the Board is confident that a single CEO structure enables even greater focus and effectiveness. We are deeply grateful to Amy for her lasting contributions in building an organization prepared to meet this moment.”

Khalfani brings deep executive experience across the community health landscape, including executive leadership within federally qualified health center systems delivering essential primary and reproductive health services. Known for operational excellence and a leadership approach grounded in community, her career has focused on expanding access, strengthening provider networks, and advancing equitable care. Together with her academic background and strategic discipline, these experiences uniquely position her to lead Essential Access at this pivotal moment.

“This is a moment that calls for courage and focus,” said Khalfani. “I am honored to lead Essential Access forward as we work alongside partners and communities to protect access and help shape the future of reproductive health.”

Reflecting on her tenure, Moy shared, “It has been a privilege to serve this organization and the communities at the heart of our mission. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and confident Essential Access will continue to be a force for progress.”

Essential Access remains committed to championing high-quality sexual and reproductive health care for all through clinical programs, advocacy, research, and strategic partnerships.