VANCOUVER, BC.- Following a year of significant financial improvement, growing public engagement and renewed philanthropic support, the Vancouver Art Gallery welcomes two new Trustees to its Association Board: Carol Chiang and David Rowntree. The appointment of the new Trustees was announced on Wednesday, October 28, and they will assume their new roles immediately.

The appointments come as the Gallery continues to build momentum across all areas of its work, announced at the Gallery's Annual General Meeting. Over the past year, it has strengthened its financial position by more than $7.4 million, achieved its highest admissions in three years, and secured transformative philanthropic support that advances its long-term vision.

The Gallery also acknowledges the departure of Dana Claxton, Sarah Kirby-Yung, Peter Meiszner and Esther Rausenberg, who collectively brought 24 years of service to the Association Board.

“We are delighted to welcome Carol and David to the Board at this pivotal time," says Jon Stovell, Chair of the Gallery’s Board of Trustees. "Their extraordinary vision, leadership and connections will be invaluable as we build on our recent progress and move towards our long-term ambitions, including our future home. We are also hugely grateful to Dana, Sarah, Peter and Esther for their years of service and the insight, dedication and care they have brought to the Gallery. As highly influential individuals with a deep commitment to their communities, their contributions have helped shape our institution as we enter a bold new chapter."

Carol Chiang is a Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant (FCPA, FCA) and former KPMG partner with 35 years of experience, much of which was dedicated to serving organizations across British Columbia. As KPMG’s British Columbia Not-for-Profit Sector Leader, she advised organizations across arts and culture, education, healthcare and community services on financial reporting, governance and accountability. Through her extensive experience in financial leadership and service on the boards of Destination BC, the Terry Fox Research Institute, Canadian Accredited Independent Schools, the KPMG Foundation and Minerva BC, Chiang brings valuable financial and governance expertise to the Association Board. As a passionate advocate for leadership development and a champion for women in leadership, and diversity, equity and inclusion, Chiang helps to strengthen organizations and cultivate the next generation of leaders.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the Board at such an exciting time, with the Gallery looking ahead to a new building and a new chapter in its history," says Carol Chiang. "I’ve spent much of my career working with not-for-profit organizations, and I know how important strong leadership and a solid foundation are to achieving big ambitions. I’m excited to lend my support and help the Gallery build on its momentum, reach its financial goals and make art accessible to more people across the community.”

David Rowntree joins the Gallery as an ex-officio Trustee in his capacity as Chair of the Vancouver Art Gallery Foundation. He is the Founder and Managing Director of Highland West Capital Ltd., a Vancouver–based family office, and co-founder of Tricor Pacific Capital Inc., where he helped grow assets under management to nearly one billion dollars. With extensive experience in private equity, corporate finance, legal affairs and business leadership, he has held senior executive and board positions across the corporate sector. As Chair of the Vancouver Art Gallery Foundation Board and former Chair of the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation Board, Rowntree brings valuable financial, governance and philanthropic expertise to the Association Board, supporting the Gallery’s long-term sustainability.

“The Vancouver Art Gallery is a cultural hub at the heart of our city, bringing people together through art and creating space for new ideas and perspectives," says David Rowntree. "I’m delighted to join the Association Board alongside such dedicated individuals and contribute to an institution with such a vital role in our community. I look forward to working with my fellow Trustees to support its continued growth and ambitions, and ensure the Gallery can inspire audiences and support artists for generations to come.”