Victoria Harker recently joined the Board of Visitors, appointed by Governor Abigail Spanberger. She has an impressive background as a Class of 1986 graduate and previously served on the Board during Governor Robert McDonnell’s term. During her earlier tenure, she chaired the Finance Committee and contributed to various important committees.
Harker brings extensive professional experience to her new role. From 2012 to 2024, she was the executive vice president and CFO of TEGNA Inc., a global media and communications company. Her leadership there involved managing financial operations across the company.
In addition to her role at TEGNA, Harker has served on several boards. Currently, she chairs the Compensation Committee at Huntington Ingalls, the largest military shipbuilder in the U.S. She also chairs the Audit Committee for Xylem, Inc., a water technology company, overseeing risk management processes.
Beyond finance, Harker is actively involved in education. She chairs the Board for the Frank Batten School of Public Policy and Leadership. She’s also a trustee at American University, where she earned her MBA in Finance. Notably, she was designated to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, serving until 2024, focusing on financial oversight and policy development for higher education institutions in the state.
As vice rector of the University’s Board, Harker supports Rector Carlos Brown and steps in for him when necessary. Her role emphasizes planning for the future and safeguarding the interests of faculty and students. She aims to maintain the integrity of the University’s Honor system as well.
Harker’s commitment to education and finance highlights the growing trend of leaders with diverse expertise steering academic institutions. As funding for education becomes increasingly critical, her insights could be invaluable for navigating challenges ahead.
For further information about the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, visit SCHEV.
