Bloomsbury Publishing chief executive Nigel Newton said in a statement regarding the tragic death of Bloomsbury USA president Adrienne Vaughan in Italy: “Our hearts go out to Adrienne’s husband and children, parents, family and friends. Bloomsbury is doing everything possible to provide the support they need on the ground in Naples and in the US.
“The loss of Adrienne is a terrible blow. Since she was appointed President of Bloomsbury USA three years ago, America has grown to become our biggest market.
“Adrienne was a natural business leader with a great future ahead of her. She was deeply loved by colleagues due to her combination of great personal warmth with a fierce determination to make the business succeed and grow. Her business instincts were outstanding and she loved authors, readers and her colleagues equally.
“Losing Adrienne is devastating for everyone at Bloomsbury. We thank all who have sent their thoughts, prayers and condolences to us and will convey them to Adrienne’s family.
On Friday, AAP board chair (and chair and president of Norton) Julia Reidhead and AAP president and ceo Maria A. Pallante issued a joint comment on Vaughan, who served on the AAP board:
“Adrienne Vaughan was a leader of dazzling talent and infectious passion and had a deep commitment to authors and readers. She was elected to the AAP Board of Directors this year and made an immediate positive impact, speaking as a featured leader at our annual member meeting and participating with purpose on our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.
“Most of all she was an extraordinary human being, and those of us who had the opportunity to work with her will be forever fortunate. We send our love and condolences to all those who are in shock and mourning at this tragic loss, most particularly her husband and two children, whom she spoke of frequently with great pride. We hold our colleagues at Bloomsbury in our constant thoughts and send prayers and very best wishes to her husband for the speediest possible recovery.”