VCFA Announces Interim President

Ward will lead the College and work closely with the Trustees as they undertake a national search for a new president, a process that will begin this summer. She states, “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue my service to VCFA in the capacity as Interim President. The faculty and staff who have worked so hard with President Greene over the past 11 years have created a truly remarkable institution supporting artists and the impact they have in the world.”

With a VCFA MFA in Writing and a Harvard MBA, Ward brings to the president’s office a wealth of experience in management consulting and strategic planning, as well as a deep understanding of the College’s strengths and opportunities. During her career, Ward has worked with Fortune 500 companies at the Boston Consulting Group, in business development and strategic planning for investment properties owned by General Atlantic Partners, and in the nonprofit world helping established and nascent organizations launch new initiatives and develop sustainable operating plans. Her clients included the National Office of Outward Bound, the Clark Foundation, the United States government, City Year, and Public Allies. She has served on the boards of several Vermont organizations, including Woodbury College and Everybody Wins!, and has been an advisor to several private for-profit companies.

Ward continues, “My goal during this interim year is to work with the faculty and staff to position VCFA for continued success through this leadership transition process and beyond, looking at opportunities across all the disciplines we touch to further our reach and deepen our impact.”

In a letter to the College community, Board Chair Bill Schubart noted, “Leslie will provide VCFA with the energetic and capable interim leadership the College needs to position itself for continued success through this leadership transition process and beyond. Together with my fellow members of the Board, I am confident these changes will continue to build upon the distinctive educational programs, thriving community, and forward-thinking approach that make VCFA one of the nation’s best graduate art schools.”