Virginia Clark to Smithsonian

Virginia Clark, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, has accepted a position as Director of External Affairs at the Smithsonian Institution. She will assume her new position this summer.

President Rodin said, "This is a true loss to the University, but it is a wonderful opportunity for Ginny. In her new role, she will oversee all fundraising activities at the Smithsonian, one of our nation's cultural treasures and the world's largest museum and research complex."

"Penn has benefited tremendously from Ginny's abilities over the past eight years. As vice president for Development and Alumni Relations, Ginny oversaw efforts that have raised $2.1 billion for Penn, with $900 million of that total coming in the last five years to support The Agenda for Excellence. That support has enabled us to improve financial aid, endow more than 50 faculty chairs, build new research facilities and rejuvenate the historic heart of the campus. She has also worked tirelessly to improve Penn's communications with its alumni, with a special emphasis on the younger generation and promoting diversity," added Dr. Rodin.

Ms. Clark had previously served as the Wharton School's associate dean for external affairs, where she raised the School's public profile and reputation. During her tenure in that position, annual giving to the school also increased four-fold. Prior to that, she worked in what was then the Publications Office, where she oversaw a complete overhaul of Penn's undergraduate recruiting materials.

A national search will be conducted for Ms. Clark's successor.