The Charter for Compassion joins countless individuals and institutions around the world in mourning the passing of Dr. James R. Doty—renowned neurosurgeon, author, and global advocate for compassion.

Dr. Doty was not only a towering figure in the fields of medicine and neuroscience, but also a deeply valued member of the Charter for Compassion’s global leadership. He served with distinction as a member of our Board of Trustees, Vice President, and as a key contributor to our Executive Committee. His wisdom, integrity, and boundless heart left an indelible mark on our organization and inspired all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

As the founder and director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University, Dr. Doty was a pioneer in bringing rigorous scientific inquiry to the study of compassion. His groundbreaking work helped to legitimize compassion as a central tenet in the fields of neuroscience, healthcare, and education. Through his bestselling memoir Into the Magic Shop, he opened his own life journey to the world—sharing with profound vulnerability how love and mindfulness can transform trauma, uncertainty, and fear into healing and hope.

Dr. Doty was a guiding force in shaping the Charter’s vision of a more compassionate world. He believed deeply in the human capacity for kindness and was instrumental in advancing the Charter’s educational and healthcare initiatives. His leadership was rooted in empathy and service.

At this moment of profound loss, the Charter for Compassion extends our deepest condolences to Dr. Doty’s family, colleagues at Stanford University, and to the global community of friends, students, and fellow changemakers who were touched by his life and work. We honor his legacy by rededicating ourselves to the compassionate world he so passionately worked to build.

May his memory be a blessing and a call to continue the work of healing and transformation that defined his life.

With heartfelt sorrow and immense gratitude,

The Charter for Compassion