The George Washington University Board of Trustees elected its officers, voting to extend the terms of current Chair Grace E. Speights, J.D. ’82, and Vice Chair Mark H. Chichester, B.B.A. ’90, J.D. ’93, through spring 2026, while selecting Jeffrey Flaks, M.H.S.A. '96, as secretary for a one-year term beginning in June.
Fulfilling key oversight and fiduciary responsibilities, GW’s board plays an integral role in overseeing fiscal, academic and campus operations. In addition, the trustees provide leadership in developing the university’s endowed resources and participate actively in GW’s strategic initiatives.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve GW as chair of the board,” Speights said. “As we work with President Granberg, the leadership, and our entire community of students, faculty, staff and alumni, I look forward to another year of accelerating progress.”
Noting his appreciation for the confidence of the board in his service, Chichester echoed Speights’ comments about GW’s upward trajectory.
“Even in the face of the headwinds facing higher education, we have many reasons to be excited about the future of GW, and I am humbled to be a part of the leadership of this community in this moment,” Chichester said.
In extending the terms of the board’s top officers, trustees praised the committed leadership of Speights and Chichester and emphasized the advantages of retaining successful leaders with deep institutional knowledge as well as understanding of the university’s priorities—particularly at a time of great momentum for GW.
Over just the next year, the university anticipates moving forward with several key initiatives expected to bolster progress as a top research university: developing the strategic framework; updating the university budget model; strengthening the quality and impact of GW’s research, teaching, clinical enterprise and student experience; and refreshing the university’s brand.
“We are very fortunate to benefit from the great depth and breadth of expertise of our board members,” President Ellen M. Granberg said. “I have the utmost confidence that Chair Speights, Vice Chair Chichester and Secretary Flaks will continue the board’s sustained commitment to the GW community and protect the future of the university.”
Current Secretary Avram Tucker, B.B.A. ’77, who completes his term this year, will depart the board at the end of May.
“Ave has served our board and the university with incredible distinction, giving back considerable time and talent to this institution,” Speights said. “On behalf of the board, we are grateful for his service and delighted that he will continue to be an engaged alumnus and enthusiastic supporter of GW.”