Minneapolis College of Art and Design names Gwendolyn Freed its 20th president

Gwendolyn Freed has been appointed as the 20th president of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, succeeding Sanjit Sethi, who was asked to step down amid faculty concerns. Currently the interim chief development officer at Second Harvest Heartland, Freed has a rich background in higher education and the arts. She aims to ensure that MCAD remains a thriving institution with a focus on inclusivity and well-being for its students and staff. Freed has expressed her strong alignment with the college's mission, emphasizing the importance of a supportive community for creative students. The unanimous decision by the board highlights their trust in her collaborative leadership style and deep roots in the Twin Cities.

Freed's experience includes teaching at the University of Minnesota and a history as a journalist covering business and culture for the Minnesota Star Tribune. She will be the second female president in the college's history, following interim president Karen Wirth. Freed's hiring marks a new chapter for MCAD, especially following the challenges faced during Sethi's tenure, which included navigating the complexities of the pandemic.