VisArts Appoints Jordan Brown as New Executive Director

The Board of Directors of the Visual Arts Center of Richmond is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jordan Brown as the organization’s new Executive Director effective immediately. Brown, who has served as the interim executive director since January 2023, brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the organization.

Having started in 2012 as a front-desk associate, Brown has a long-standing history with VisArts. She has been instrumental in the success of community programs such as Make Space, Studio S, and Veterans at VisArts. In her role as Director of Education + Programs, she led the education team and spearheaded the art center’s annual programming.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Jordan Brown as our next Executive Director,” says Kate Ackerly, VisArts’ Board Chair. “Since taking the helm in January, Jordan has positioned us in the best way possible to embark on a new chapter at VisArts. Her expertise in education and programs, her strong relationships with our donors, and her vision for our future provide great momentum as we celebrate ‘60 years of making’ at VisArts. We expect nothing but great things ahead!”

The board of directors initiated a national search for the executive director position in April, and the search committee, consisting of current board members and a former board chair of VisArts, evaluated numerous applicants from diverse backgrounds, including college directors, gallery owners, and arts nonprofit leaders. However, through the hiring process, it became evident to the committee that the most suitable candidate was already within the organization.

“At the conclusion of the search, it was clear to the committee that we had the best candidate right here in Jordan,” says Steve Humble, Co-chair of the search committee. “Her calm leadership, expertise in expanding our education opportunities, and her extensive arts background unequivocally demonstrated how fortunate we are to have her at VisArts already.”

Recognized as a 2023 cohort of Richmond’s Top 40 Under 40 class by StyleWeekly Magazine, Brown expressed her gratitude for being selected for the leading position. “It is a true honor to be chosen for this role. VisArts has been a home, a resource, and a family to so many people throughout its long life, and it has genuinely been a life-changing place for me personally. I’m grateful to the search committee and the board for their care and intention with this hiring process. VisArts is at an exciting moment in its history, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of what comes next and to remain connected to this beautiful community.”

Originally from Minnesota, Brown now considers Richmond her home. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in painting and printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Masters in Arts Administration degree from Goucher College, which she pursued while working at VisArts. Additionally, Brown serves as a board member of Partners in the Arts, is a graduate of Leadership Metro Richmond’s Leadership Quest Program and has been actively involved with various community organizations in the Richmond region over the years