Vera Bradley co-founder announces retirement

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Vera Bradley co-founder Patricia R. Miller announced Thursday that she will retire from the business after 30 years.

She and Barbara Bradley Baekgaard started Vera Bradley, Inc. in 1982.

“Barbara and I decided to enter the world of women’s bags and accessories 30 years ago. With an idea and a vision, Vera Bradley became a reality. Today, thanks to loyal customers, dedicated employees, sound management and a strong Board of Directors, that small beginning has grown into a publicly traded, internationally recognized brand,” Miller said.

Miller is a board member of the Indiana University Foundation, Indiana University Varsity Club, and is a founding member of the Indiana University Women’s Philanthropy Council.

In 2005, she served as Indiana’s first Secretary of Commerce and as president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Miller plans to continue to serve as a member of the Vera Bradley Board of Directors and the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer Board.

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