President’s Office Leadership Update

Dear Emerson community,

I write today, with mixed emotions, to share the news of a significant transition in the President’s Office. After an incredible 27-year journey during which she served four presidents, culminating in her current position of Vice President and Chief of Staff, Anne Shaughnessy has decided to depart Emerson College effective September 15, 2023, to take time to pause and explore new possibilities and opportunities.

Anne’s dedication and unwavering commitment to Emerson have been unmatched. Her steady presence has been a calming force in the President’s Office and with the Board of Trustees for decades, and her outstanding work has left an indelible mark on our college. Behind the scenes, Anne was also instrumental in ensuring that many special projects and externally facing activities placed the institution in the best possible light. I know that many on campus will miss her presence, counsel, and her friendship developed over these many years.

Anne’s guidance has been essential to my onboarding, and she has been a wise and trusted counselor during my first few months in Boston. While I will miss her daily presence in the President’s Office, I’m delighted that she will continue sharing her expert advice and wealth of knowledge with me as a part-time consultant through the end of the year.

Please join me in extending our heartfelt gratitude to Anne for her 27 years of leadership and service and wishing her all the best in the well-deserved next phase of her journey. I will share plans for managing the transition in the coming weeks.

Sincerely,
Jay M. Bernhardt
President