The National Book Foundation has elected three new members to its board of directors. Lucia Ferreira, managing director and head of the nonprofit department at Russell Reynolds Associates; Michael Lynton, chairman of the board at Snap, Inc.; and Michelle Weiner, head of the books department at Creative Artists Agency, have all taken seats on the board, effective immediately.
“We could not be more pleased to have Lucia, Michael, and Michelle join our Board,” Lisa Lucas, executive director of the National Book Foundation, said in a statement. “Here at the Foundation, we fully believe that books are not for any one demographic, but for everyone. The wide-ranging expertise of these new members is invaluable to us as we work toward a world of expanded access to literature and a robust culture of reading.”
Ferreira and Lynton have backgrounds in the financial and entertainment industries, respectively. Ferreira's work at Russel Reynolds has focused on work with, the NBF said, "domestic and international nonprofit organizations with a focus on economic development, social justice, education, and the environment." Lynton, who served as CEO of Sony Entertainment from April 2012 until February of last year, was previously chairman and CEO of the Penguin Group. Weiner joined Creative Artists Agency in 2006 after a career as an attorney at Hamrick and Evans; she has represented authors including Jeffrey Eugenides, Michael Cunningham, Garrard Connolly, Stephanie Danler, and Nathan Hill.
“The reach and scope of the National Book Foundation’s work are wider than ever,” David Steinberger, chairman of the board of directors of the National Book Foundation, said in a statement. “As we continue to grow the Awards as well as our programs and services, it’s vital that we continue to grow our leadership as well. The experience and perspectives that Lucia, Michael, and Michelle bring to our Board are part of that essential growth, and we are thrilled to welcome them.”
