“I am delighted to have Laura join the Emma Willard leadership team as CFO,” shared Head of School Jenny Rao. “Laura distinguished herself throughout the search process with her depth of experience, vision for building financial and operational strength, and her profound dedication and loyalty to our school and mission.”

Over the last 13 years, Ms. Bernard has expanded the scope of her responsibility in the Business Services office to include many key components of Emma Willard’s operations, notably student financial aid and dining services. A certified public accountant in the State of New York, she also brings experience from the financial services industry to her role, having previously worked at KPMG, one of the largest accounting firms in the United States.

As CFO and head of operations, Ms. Bernard will oversee a multifaceted unit that includes Campus Safety, Dining Services, Facilities, Finance, Human Resources, and Information Technology. She will also staff the finance and facilities committees of the Board and steer the investment strategy for Emma Willard’s endowment, which has more than doubled since she first arrived.

“The Business Services and Operations teams are dedicated, hard-working professionals who I’m humbled to have the opportunity to lead in this new role,” said Bernard. “Emma Willard has grown so much in my time here and is in such an incredible position of strength—I look forward to the many things we will accomplish in the years to come!”

Ms. Bernard holds a BBA in Accounting from Siena College and, in addition to her CPA, is a member of both the American Institute of Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants. Ms. Bernard has served on the Board of Trustees of the Susan Odell Taylor School since 2019 and is currently the vice president of the board. She lives in Halfmoon with her husband and three children.