John Mize, a strategic leader and nonprofit executive, will lead the AUL team in advancing the human right to life in culture, law, and policy through new strategic vision and growth for America’s first national pro-life mission.
Jay Cunningham, Americans United for Life (AUL) Board Chair, announced Thursday that the Board of Directors has selected John Mize as CEO. Mize is set to join the organization on Tuesday, January 16.
“I am honored to have been selected to lead Americans United for Life,” said John Mize, incoming AUL CEO. “AUL is an amazing organization with an exceptionally rich history and a future as bright as America itself. Our mission, purpose, and team are strong, and I’m eager to help write AUL’s next chapter. We will connect with Americans from coast to coast to grow AUL and deliver the positive impact necessary for Americans everywhere to thrive. Together, we will shape truly life-affirming culture, law, and policy for the betterment of every member of the human family.”
Most recently, Mize has worked as executive vice president for business development at the New York-based Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. He is a board member at Mental Health America and a committee member at the Richmond West End auxiliary of YoungLife.
“Our decision to hire John comes after an extensive search process that gave us the opportunity to encounter so many who underscore that the restoration of the human right to life is crucial for America’s future,” said Jay Cunningham, AUL Board Chair. “The Board was impressed by John’s strong leadership skills, his fundraising expertise, and his passion for the pro-life cause. We believe there’s no one better equipped to grow AUL’s mission and national impact at this crucial time.”
Steven H. Aden, AUL Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel, said, “It’s become clear that America will always need Americans United for Life and the wider pro-life movement. The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a generational victory with its Dobbs decision, but the lasting cultural damage of Roe remains a national challenge. I’m confident that John will grow our mission and resources to meet the challenges of the present and the future. We must become a national institution and a permanent force for the protection of human rights at every age and in every generation.”
“Ever since our founding in 1971, AUL has been committed to constitutional equal protection for all,” said Tom Shakely, AUL Chief Engagement Officer. “John understands what it will take to realize our long-sought vision of an America that truly delivers equal justice under law. We look forward to working with a renewed clarity, empowered by our strategic partners, to bring about the day when all are welcomed throughout life and protected in law.”
Mize succeeds Kevin Tordoff, who has led AUL on an interim basis and will remain a member of the executive team.
