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A New Chapter for Salem

Dr. Jill Fleuriet, Salem's 23rd President

Salem Academy and College has successfully completed its national search and appointed Dr. Jill Fleuriet as its next president. A collaborative, mission-driven leader, Dr. Fleuriet brings a bold vision grounded in the intersection of the liberal arts, health, and leadership, guiding Salem into its next chapter with clarity, purpose, and momentum.

Meet Salem's Next President

Dr. Jill Fleuriet is a nationally recognized educator and strategic leader with more than two decades of experience in higher education. Known for her relational and data-informed approach, she has led innovative academic programs, strengthened institutional strategy, and championed student success. Her work aligns closely with Salem’s mission, preparing students not only for careers but also for lives of purpose and impact.

Dr. Fleuriet will officially begin her presidency on July 1, 2026. In the coming months, she’ll be working closely with campus leadership to ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition. She looks forward to engaging with students, faculty, staff, alumnae, and the broader Salem community as she helps shape Salem’s future.

A Transformational Moment for Salem

Dr. Fleuriet’s appointment marks an important moment in Salem’s history. As the institution continues to build on its legacy as the nation’s oldest educational institution for girls and women, her leadership will help advance a distinctive vision. A vision that unites academic excellence, leadership development, and a deep commitment to health and wellbeing.

About the Presidential Search

Salem Academy and College conducted a comprehensive national search to identify its next president. Guided by a dedicated search committee and supported by a leading executive search firm, the process included broad engagement with campus stakeholders and careful consideration of the institution’s mission, values, and future direction.

Presidential Search Committee

The national search for Salem Academy and College’s 23rd president was be initiated by the search firm and led by Salem’s Presidential Search Committee. Salem selected Isaacson, Miller for its strong track record of successful presidential searches in higher education and private college preparatory high schools, and understanding of institutions with missions similar to Salem’s. The Presidential Search Committee was Co-Chaired by Board Chair Dr. John McConnell and Board Vice Chair Dr. Brandy Nelson, C’97. 

The Presidential Search Committee was composed of members of the broader Salem community, including faculty, staff, students, trustees, and alumnae. The role of the Search Committee was to define the leadership qualities Salem sought in the next President, and vet potential candidates brought forward in consultation with the national search firm Isaacson, Miller. The committee recommended 2-3 finalists to the Board for its due diligence and final appointment.

View Committee Members

Presidential Search Committee

Dr. John McConnell

John McConnell, MD

Chair
  • Chief Executive Officer Emeritus
    Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and Professor Emeritus of Urology, Wake Forest School of Medicine
    Winston-Salem, NC
Brandy Nelson

Brandy Nelson, EdD C’97

Vice Chair
  • Executive Director for Instructional Design at The College Board
    Mint Hill, NC

Madison Rosenblatt C’26

College Student, SGA President

Grace McPhail A’26

Academy Student, Student Council President

Sarah Solana C’11

  • Director Global Enterprise Customer Success
    UKG

    Albuquerque-Santa Fe Metropolitan Area

Vonda Delawie A’75

  • [retired] U.S. Department of State
    Washington, DC
Sallie Smalley Beason

Sallie Smalley Beason, A’85

Treasurer
  • Community Volunteer
    Charlotte, NC
Akeshia Craven Howell

Akeshia Craven-Howell

  • Partner, Strategic Advising
    Bellwether Education Partners
    Charlotte, NC

Pamela Fox

  • Consulting President Emerita
    Mary Baldwin University
    Swoope, VA

Bob Baker

  • (Retired) Senior Associate Vice President for University Development
    Wake Forest University
    Winston-Salem, NC

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