Laura Blankfein Assumes Leadership Role as Chair of Barnard's Governing Board

• Laura Blankfein has been appointed as Barnard Board Chair
• She will continue to serve the institution through impactful leadership and dedication

In a formal announcement released on Thursday, Barnard College’s President confirmed that Laura Blankfein, BC ’75, will take on the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees starting July 1. Laura Rosenbury, Barnard College’s President, praised both outgoing and incoming chairs, emphasizing Laura’s visionary leadership and her deep-rooted commitment to serve the community.

Through her tenure as a trustee for over 15 years, Laura brings a deep philanthropic ethos to Barnard. She has led key committees including Nominations and Enrolments & Communications, while contributing to Academic Affairs, Development, Campus life, Executive, and Governance. Together with Lloyd Blankfein, former Goldman Sachs CEO, she oversees their foundation’s education initiatives, including a $50,000 donation to Barnard in 2009.

“Barnard has shaped my life in countless ways, and I’m honored to step into this role and serve alongside such a thoughtful, passionate, and visionary Board of Trustees,” Laura said. “Together, we will continue to expand access and opportunity for students and create bold new pathways for women’s leadership in every field.”

As noted in the announcement, Laura conveyed her appreciation for Cheryl Glicker Milsten, who served the board of trustees for almost 30 years. She highlighted Cheryl’s remarkable strength, poise, and dedication to creating lasting opportunities for Barnard’s next generation of students.

 “I’m proud to pass the baton to Laura Blankfein, whose devotion and belief in the power of women’s leadership make her exactly the right person to guide Barnard into its next chapter,” Cheryl said in the news release.