Vera Bradley Announces Barbara Baekgaard Transitions to Emeritus Status After 40 Years
Rhea-AI Summary
Vera Bradley (Nasdaq: VRA) has announced that co-founder Barbara Baekgaard will transition to Director Emeritus status, stepping back from official board duties but remaining involved in the company's brand transformation. Baekgaard, who co-founded the company in 1982 with Patricia Miller, will not seek re-election at the upcoming shareholders meeting.
Under Baekgaard's leadership, Vera Bradley grew from a startup into a lifestyle brand known for vibrant patterns and innovative designs. Her impact extends beyond the company through the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer, which has raised over $41 million for research since its establishment in 1994.
CEO Jackie Ardrey emphasized that while Baekgaard is stepping back from the boardroom, she will continue to provide visionary insights during the ongoing brand transformation. Baekgaard expressed optimism about the company's future under Ardrey's leadership.
Positive
- Smooth leadership transition with founder maintaining advisory role ensures continuity
- Strong philanthropic foundation with $41 million raised for breast cancer research demonstrates brand value
Negative
- None.
News Market Reaction
On the day this news was published, VRA declined 3.53%, reflecting a moderate negative market reaction.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
FORT WAYNE, Ind., March 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vera Bradley, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRA) has announced that its co-founder Barbara Baekgaard, will not stand for re-election at the upcoming shareholders meeting and will instead transition to a Director Emeritus role. While she will be stepping back from official board duties, Baekgaard will continue to remain involved in the Company she co-founded and the Vera Bradley brand transformation.
Baekgaard’s influence on Vera Bradley has been immeasurable. From launching the brand in 1982 with Patricia Miller to growing it into a beloved lifestyle company recognized for its vibrant, handcrafted patterns and innovative designs, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the business and inspiring generations of women entrepreneurs.
“Barb has been the heart and soul of Vera Bradley,” said Jackie Ardrey, CEO of Vera Bradley. “Her leadership, creativity, and generosity have shaped not only our company but also the communities she serves. While she steps back from the boardroom, we are thrilled that she will continue to lend her visionary thoughts and insights as we continue to execute on the brand transformation.
Beyond Vera Bradley, Baekgaard remains a force in philanthropy and hospitality. In 1994, Baekgaard, along with Miller, established the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer after the loss of a dear friend to breast cancer. To date, the Foundation has raised over
“I appreciate the collaborative support and business insights from Vera Bradley’s Board members over these years, and am excited about the new path that will be charted by this new generation of the Vera Bradley Board.” Added Mrs. Baekgaard, “I look forward to continuing to offer my insights and historical knowledge for our business. My love for the Vera Bradley brand remains undiminished, and I am extremely optimistic about the Company’s future under Jackie’s leadership.”
As Baekgaard embarks on this new chapter, Vera Bradley remains steadfast in its mission to empower women through thoughtful design, social impact, and a commitment to giving back—values that Baekgaard has championed since day one.
CONTACTS:
Investors:
Tom Filandro, Partner
ICR, Inc
VeraBradleyIR@icrinc.com
Media:
mediacontact@verabradley.com
877-708-VERA (8372)
FAQ
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