Seasoned health justice leader to begin in February 2026
Washington, D.C. — The Board of Directors of the National Health Law Program (NHeLP) is pleased to announce the selection of Jennifer Cannistra as the organization’s next Executive Director. Cannistra will begin her tenure in February 2026, succeeding Elizabeth G. Taylor, who is retiring after more than a decade of transformative leadership.
Cannistra is widely respected as a thoughtful, collaborative, and effective leader with a strong record of improving health outcomes for people and communities. Cannistra brings deep experience in federal and local government and a long-standing commitment to health justice. She has held leadership roles in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services across two administrations, most recently serving as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy at the Administration for Children and Families. She has also led teams focused on behavioral health and homelessness for the District of Columbia.
“As the Board conducted a national search, Jennifer stood out for her depth of experience, her values-driven leadership, and her clear understanding of what it takes to protect access to affordable health care during periods of intense policy disruption,” said Arian M. June, Chair of the NHeLP Board of Directors and a litigation partner based in Washington, D.C. at Debevoise & Plimpton. “She brings both strategic vision and a collaborative approach that will serve NHeLP and the communities we support exceptionally well. We are thrilled to welcome her as our next Executive Director.”
June also expressed the Board’s appreciation for NHeLP’s outgoing Executive Director. “We are also profoundly grateful to Elizabeth Taylor for her extraordinary leadership and dedication. Under Elizabeth’s leadership, NHeLP grew both in size and in its role as a national leader in the fight to advance health equity; her legacy will continue to guide the organization for years to come.”
Cannistra will assume leadership at a moment of profound challenge and opportunity for health care access. Ongoing government and policy upheavals continue to threaten coverage, affordability, and essential protections, even as millions of people struggle to access the care they need. The Board emphasized that new leadership brings an opportunity to build on NHeLP’s strong foundation while advancing fresh ideas and strategies to meet the demands of this moment.
“I am honored to be joining NHeLP,” said Cannistra. “At a time when so many people face barriers to affordable health care, NHeLP’s mission and work could not be more urgent. I look forward to partnering with NHeLP’s exceptional staff, the Board, and advocates across the country to protect access, enforce rights, and advance a more equitable health care system.”
The Board will work closely with both Cannistra and Taylor to ensure a smooth transition in the months ahead.
Founded nearly 60 years ago, the National Health Law Program works to protect and improve access to health care for low-income and underserved people and to advance health justice nationwide.
