I am writing to inform you that I will be taking a temporary leave of absence as President of the American Iranian Council during the period of the Presidential election in Iran.  As many of you are aware, I have previously run for President of Iran. This year, I have again announced my candidacy:

English: https://www.trackpersia.com/iranian-american-professor-gears-presidential-election/ 
Persian: http://masalnews.ir/46222/

My leave will begin on April 10 and last at least through the Presidential election season.  The American Iranian Council is proud to be a non-partisan organization with nearly three decades of achievement in US-Iran relations.  My leave will ensure that the organization remains non-partisan and that there is no conflict of interest or association between my political activities and statements and those of the organization.