Bard College Executive and Leadership Team

Gideon Lester, the Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer at Bard College, directs the institution's artistic vision and overall strategic operations. Overseeing all creative programming and performance initiatives, Lester ensures alignment with Bard's core mission of fostering scholarship, the arts, and civic engagement. This leadership role involves developing innovative projects that push artistic boundaries while addressing societal issues. By cultivating partnerships and managing key artistic resources, Gideon Lester directly impacts the college's cultural influence and public interest contributions. Ultimately, Lester secures the artistic integrity and long-term viability of Bard's performing arts endeavors.

James Brudvig, the Vice President-Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer at Bard College, manages the institution's financial health and administrative functions. Overseeing all fiscal operations, Brudvig ensures robust financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to support Bard's academic and civic missions. This critical role involves safeguarding the college's assets and optimizing financial performance through strategic oversight. By directing financial strategy and administrative processes, James Brudvig directly supports the college's operational stability and growth. Ultimately, Brudvig maintains the financial integrity necessary for Bard College to thrive.

Lean Botstein, the President at Bard College, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Guiding the college's academic and administrative functions, Botstein champions Bard's commitment to scholarship, the arts, and civic engagement. This pivotal role involves setting the institutional vision, fostering intellectual discourse, and representing Bard College to external stakeholders. By driving institutional growth and upholding academic excellence, Lean Botstein directly shapes the college's reputation and impact. Ultimately, Botstein ensures Bard College remains at the forefront of liberal arts education and public service.

Malia Mont, the Vice President, Strategy & Policy Chief of Staff at Bard College, drives strategic initiatives and policy development across the institution. Overseeing key projects and ensuring effective implementation of the college's long-term vision, Mont facilitates cross-departmental collaboration. This role involves translating strategic goals into actionable plans and advising leadership on policy matters. By managing critical strategic frameworks and policy execution, Malia Mont directly enhances Bard College's capacity for innovation and societal impact. Ultimately, Mont ensures strategic coherence and effective governance in support of the college's mission.

Debra Pemstein, the Vice President, Development Alumni & Chief Administrative Officer, AE Affairs, Fisher Center For The Performing Arts at Bard College, leads critical fundraising and administrative operations. Overseeing development efforts and alumni relations, Pemstein cultivates essential financial support for the college and its performing arts center. This multifaceted role involves managing administrative functions for the Fisher Center, ensuring its operational efficiency and programmatic success. By driving development strategies and administrative oversight, Debra Pemstein directly strengthens Bard College's financial resources and community engagement. Ultimately, Pemstein secures vital support for the college's mission and its vibrant arts programming.