Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) announced that Laura Retherford (she/her) will assume the role of Vice President of Development. Retherford joined the College in November 2022, and in her expanded capacity will continue to lead the College’s development team in support of annual and strategic fundraising goals, as outlined in Maine College of Art & Design's Strategic Plan: Envisioning Our Future 2027.
"Laura has shown tremendous leadership and helped to position the College within reach of our strategic goals,” said Laura Freid, President of Maine College of Art & Design. “Laura has a remarkable ability to galvanize our community of supporters around our mission through her infectious commitment to our goals. We are lucky to have Laura at the helm and look forward to working with her towards the next phase of our plan.”
Among the College’s highest priorities are ensuring that Maine College of Art & Design remains financially accessible for current and future students, creating custom-built teaching and learning spaces that support key programs, and expanding partnerships that foster deeper connections between the College and the community. By supporting initiatives that bridge student learning with real-world experience, MECA&D aims to catalyze creative collaboration, innovation and shared growth throughout the region.
Retherford shared, “I am continuously blown away by the dedication and commitment of MECA&D students and inspired by the quality of teaching and deep learning the faculty provides. It is a privilege to support the College in offering transformative opportunities to students who, in turn, give back to so many in both Maine and across the country.”
With Retherford’s development leadership, Maine College of Art & Design is well positioned to secure the funds needed to move each of the five goals underscored in its strategic plan:
- Cultivating academic excellence with the highest standards in art and design education;
- Developing a culture of social change, racial justice, and equity;
- Broadening its reach through online and distance learning;
- Creating a “Living and Learning Center” that will expand MECA&D’s Portland footprint and serve as a cultural hub for community engagement; and,
- Ensuring financial sustainability for the long-term success of the College.
The College aims to make significant progress towards each of these goals by the year 2027.