Executive Director Elysa Voshell to Leave Minnesota Center for Book Arts

Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) Board of Directors has announced that Executive Director Elysa Voshell will step down from her position in September 2025 after six years of leadership. Voshell will be relocating to Los Angeles to join her wife and to focus on her personal artistic practice. 

During her six-year tenure, Voshell lead the organization through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and under her leadership MCBA has grown revenue by 45% and assets by more than 300%. The Board also commended Voshell on strengthening MCBA's strategic programming, community engagement initiatives, and expanded partnerships. 

"Elysa has been a transformative leader for MCBA during a pivotal time in our 40-year history," said Jenny Henningsen, Chair of MCBA's Board of Directors. "Her vision and dedication over the past six years have significantly advanced our mission to ignite artistic practice, inspire learning, and foster diverse creative communities through the book arts. While we're sad to see her go, we're grateful for her contributions and excited about MCBA's bright future." 

Voshell expressed appreciation for her time at Minnesota Center for Book Arts: "It has been the greatest honor and joy to lead this remarkable organization for the past six years and to work alongside such talented artists, dedicated staff, engaged board, and passionate community members. I am so proud of what we have accomplished to push the limits of this dynamic art form while expanding access and lifting up new voices in the field. Spaces like MCBA that foster creativity, community, and connection are vital to our shared humanity. I am excited to continue to be in community with the many wonderful people I've gotten to know here. MCBA is well-positioned for its next chapter, and I look forward to seeing how it continues to thrive." 

A committee has been established to identify MCBA's next Executive Director, comprising board members and community stakeholders. The search process will begin immediately, with finalist interviews expected in September 2025. The committee aims to announce Voshell's successor this fall.

"We are seeking a dynamic leader who will honor MCBA's legacy while bringing fresh perspectives to further our mission," Henningsen said. "We're committed to finding someone who shares our dedication to artistic excellence, community engagement, and making book arts accessible to all." 

Information about the application process will be available on MCBA's website by May 15. MCBA will host a celebration honoring Voshell's six years of contributions in September 2025. Details will be announced later this summer.