Laysha Ward
Ms. Ward has served as the Executive Vice President, Chief External Engagement Officer for Target since 2017, overseeing the company’s enterprise-wide approach to engage and deepen cross-sector stakeholder relations to drive positive business and community impact. With 30 years of leadership experience at Target, Ms. Ward began her career in 1991 as a member of the Marshall Field’s Chicago team. Ms. Ward was named Director of Community Relations in 2000 and promoted to Vice President of Community Relations and Target Foundation in 2003. Prior to her current role, Ms. Ward served as Executive Vice President, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer.
Ms. Ward serves on the Aspen Institute Latinos and Society Advisory Board and the Stanford Center for Longevity Advisory Council; is a member of the Executive Leadership Council, the Economic Clubs of New York and Chicago, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and The Links; and serves on the boards of Greater MSP, the Minnesota Orchestra, the Northside Achievement Zone, and Denny’s Corporation for-profit board of directors. Ms. Ward received a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, master’s degree from the University of Chicago, and an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs.
Ms. Ward has served on the United Airlines Holdings, Inc. Board of Directors since February 2021.