van Eersel brings 35 years of experience in real estate, nonprofits, and higher education to the role. Since joining the Foundation in 2001, she has played an instrumental role in expanding the University's research parks and strengthening partnerships between the private sector, government, and the University.

"Deborah's appointment as CEO reflects the confidence of the board and staff in her exceptional leadership abilities and deep understanding of the Foundation's mission," said Daniel Abramson, chair of the UVA Foundation board. "Her track record of innovation and strategic growth, combined with her commitment to our community, makes her the ideal leader to build upon Tim Rose's remarkable legacy."

As chief administrative officer since 2013, van Eersel has spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including implementing comprehensive strategic planning processes and modernizing the Foundation's operational infrastructure. Her commercial real estate achievements include negotiating 1.75 million square feet of Class A office and laboratory leases since 2010. She has been particularly instrumental in the development of North Fork, where her leadership has helped efforts to establish a new biotech accelerator program.

"I am honored to lead this extraordinary organization and build upon its strong foundation," said van Eersel. "My focus will be on maintaining our people-first culture while advancing UVA's mission through strategic real estate initiatives. We have a unique opportunity to contribute to both the University's mission and our region's economic vitality."

“For over two decades, Deborah has been a driving force behind the Foundation’s success and has consistently elevated the organization’s impact across and beyond Grounds,” said Jennifer “J.J.” Wagner Davis, chief operating officer and executive vice president of operations of UVA and UVA Foundation board member. “We are fortunate to have her accept this position. Her leadership and deep commitment to the Foundation will keenly advance the Foundation’s mission and its partnerships with the University, North Fork, and many other key community stakeholders.”

Throughout her career, van Eersel has been deeply engaged in community service, serving on numerous boards, including the Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Greater Charlottesville, and the Urban Land Institute Virginia. Before joining the Foundation, she served as CEO of the Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS®, where she established several enduring community initiatives, including what is now known as the Free Enterprise Forum.

"Deborah's dedication to excellence and her ability to tackle any challenge have been remarkable to witness," said outgoing CEO Tim Rose. "She is a fierce advocate for people, and her work ethic and enthusiasm for economic development have been driving forces behind North Fork's success over the years."

A Midwestern native who has called Virginia home for over 40 years, van Eersel brings a diverse educational background to her role. She holds a degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she studied international business, studied French at the Sorbonne in Paris, and earned her Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the American Society of Association Executives. She shares her connection to UVA with her family – her husband, Michel, is a corporate meeting planner and serves as clerkship coordinator at UVA's School of Law. Their daughter, Katherine, is a 2016 graduate of the University.