The past and present officers and directors of the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute deeply mourn the passing of their dear friend and past Board of Directors member Brigitte Gerney, who passed away June 2022 at 85. For over thirty years (1983 – 2015), Brigitte brought to the Board her steadfast support and wise counsel, her warmth and enduring friendship.

She contributed to develop the mission of the Institute with her steadfast commitment to arts education and public affairs. From 1983-1988, with her support of the “Spain Today” symposia and seminar series through the Arkadi Gerney Foundation, she helped to promote mutual understanding between Spain and the US. Brigitte furthered development of the Education and Outreach program of the QSSI during the 1990’s, an initiative that helped thousands of students understand the arts of the Spanish-speaking world through programs like Spanish arts through the ages, The art of the Spanish in the United States, 2000 years of Mexican art, The golden age of Spain, and Contemporary art of the Dominican Republic. 

Those of us privileged to know her admired her courage and loyalty, her wit and humor, and her unassuming commitment to the work of the Institute.  She will be fondly remembered.