Independent Directors Council Names Kathleen T. Barr as Chair

IDC Elects Three Additional Governing Council Members

Washington, DC; October 28, 2020—The Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council (IDC) has elected Kathleen T. Barr as its chair. Barr, who has served as IDC vice chair for the past year, is an independent director of William Blair Funds and Professionally Managed Portfolios.

Dawn Vroegop, who has just completed her second year as IDC chair, is now chair emeritus. Vroegop is the independent chair of Brighthouse Funds and an independent director of Driehaus Funds.

“I am honored to be elected as chair of IDC’s Governing Council,” said Barr. “Especially in these turbulent times, the commitment of the independent director community to our shareholders remains steadfast. I look forward to building upon the foundation that the Governing Council and IDC staff have laid by helping our community continue to adapt to today’s evolving environment.”

Vroegop said, “The COVID-19 crisis compelled us to alter our approach in how we deliver resources to directors. IDC has proven its value to directors by reimagining core programs in a virtual format and hosting timely educational events dedicated to the unique circumstances brought on by the pandemic. I look forward to continuing that work with Kathie Barr, the Governing Council, and IDC staff.” 

IDC Managing Director Thomas Kim added, “We are grateful for Dawn Vroegop’s outstanding service as IDC chair. Her leadership has steered the Governing Council through an extraordinary time of transition. Based on Kathie’s proven leadership and accomplishments, I am confident that she will successfully pursue IDC’s renewed mission of educating, engaging with, advocating on behalf of, and promoting public understanding of independent directors and the value they provide to shareholders.”

The Governing Council recently elected three new members to serve on the council:

• Michael A. Forrester, TIAA-CREF Funds
• Kym M. Hubbard, PIMCO Funds
• Patricia Louie, Oakmark Funds

IDC serves the fund independent director community by advancing the education, governance, communication, and public policy priorities of fund independent directors in the United States.