PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS 2026

NOMINATIONS FOR PRESIDENT ELECT

I am writing to formally endorse Sandra Davis for a second term as president of the Women’s Caucus for Art.

We are in a moment of real instability for feminist arts organizations. The political climate is openly hostile—to women, to artists, to gender equality, to communities of color, to the very idea of equity itself. Funding is tightening. Visibility does not guarantee support. What we need now is continuity, clarity, and conviction. Sandra Davis offers all three. This is not an endorsement based on projection. It is a call to continue what is already working. Sandra’s presidency is itself the strongest endorsement of her leadership. Her service over the past two years is not a promise. It is proof.

She stepped into the role during a leadership vacuum, inheriting a presidency left unfi nished. There was no transition period, no time to ramp up. Sandra hit the ground running, stabilized the organization, and brought focus where there had been confusion. Sandra introduced two major practices that have strengthened WCA’s internal cohesion: regular monthly board meetings and monthly leadership meetings with chapter heads. Both are held virtually. These have created a new rhythm of accountability and connection across our leadership.

Just as important, she recognized where virtual engagement had to end. When some preferred to cancel or shift the summer board meeting to Zoom, Sandra supported the board members’ insistence that the meeting remain in person for growth and to liaise with a signifi can’t academic institution like The Savannah College of Art and Design. She understood that in moments of uncertainty, physical presence sends a signal. That we are still here, still building, still worth showing up for. That decision was not about convenience. It was about direction. It was a clear refusal to retreat.

She has also committed to the long view. Growing membership. Widening leadership pathways. Expanding funding sources beyond dues. Sandra understands both the mechanics of WCA and its mission. That combination is rare on the fi rst day of a president’s tenure. This endorsement is not only about sustaining leadership. It is about protecting the integrity of WCA’s future. I believe in an organization that doesn’t shrink from conflict but grows through it. I believe in leadership that listens, acts, and makes space for those coming next. Sandra has done that. And I make this recommendation knowing full well that not everyone agrees with the direction. But I would rather speak clearly and invest in a future that builds rather than stalls. This endorsement is not just about the next term—it’s about signaling to our membership and the wider community how we lead in uncertain times.

We cannot move into 2026 without a sitting president. WCA is not built to be steered by committee. Sandra has already led us through one fi re and emerged with clarity and results. I’ve spoken with fellow board members who share this recommendation. I hope you’ll join us in supporting Sandra’s continued leadership.

Allicette Torres
Women’s Caucus for Art, Board Member/ Northeast Chair/ United Nations Chair, NGO Arts Representative

STATEMENT OF INTENT

After serving two years as President of the Women’s Caucus for Art, it has become abundantly clear that continuity of leadership is essential at this pivotal moment in our organization’s history. We have laid important groundwork, strengthening communication, stabilizing operations, and deepening our commitment to advocacy and community—but that work requires additional time to fully take root.

Our membership is aging, and we are at a crossroads. As long-standing members transition into new seasons of life, we must be intentional about cultivating the next generation of artists, curators, administrators, and leaders. A second term would allow me to continue building a structured leadership pipeline, expand mentorship opportunities, and implement strategies to recruit and retain emerging and mid-career artists.

Re-energizing our in-person summer gatherings is also a priority. These moments of connection build camaraderie, deepen relationships, and strengthen our national network in ways that virtual engagement cannot fully replace. Coupled with a renewed focus on meaningful, mission-driven exhibitions and intentional partnerships with community organizations—when and where appropriate—we can expand our visibility while honoring the integrity of our work. Thoughtful collaborations and strong programming will help ensure that our legacy continues to evolve with purpose.
Stability is not about maintaining the status quo—it is about sustaining momentum while building for the future. With another term, I will focus on succession planning, chapter engagement, national visibility, and sustainable fundraising practices that support our mission long term. We have momentum. Now is the time to build on it—not reset it.
I remain deeply committed to strengthening our foundation while expanding our reach, ensuring that WCA continues to be a vibrant, intergenerational organization advocating for women in the arts for decades to come.

Sandra D. Davis,
Women’s Caucus for Art, President 2024—26

Sandra Davis Resume

NOMINATIONS CHAIR

Laura Morrison, Past President

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

CM Judge
Andi Steele
Rona Lesser
Janice Nesser-Chu