Former Edna S. Tuttleman Museum Director Dr. David R. Brigham has succeeded Dr. Edward T. Lewis as PAFA’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Lewis stepped down on December 31, 2009 and Brigham was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2010.
Brigham joined PAFA in October 2007. Under his leadership, the museum has seen audience growth, including the increase in admissions revenue by 63% in the summer of 2009 over the same period last year; the launch of a comprehensive exhibition and public programs plan; the growth of the collection through more than 300 works of art and several major purchases, and a significant enhancement of its profile. Brigham’s commitment to diversity has been evident in the formation of a Community Outreach Committee, the painting retrospective for Barkley L. Hendricks, and the planning of the first international retrospective for Henry O. Tanner in 2012.
“I am truly honored to be appointed PAFA’s President and Chief Executive Officer at such a momentous time in its remarkable history,” said Brigham. “PAFA will be facing exciting new challenges and opportunities with the development of the Cherry Street Plaza, making PAFA the first step on the Museum Mile, the implementation of a new low-residency Master of Fine Arts degree, and the completion of the Pennsylvania Convention Center bringing more visitors to our front door. I am eager to build upon recent successes in growing our funds available for student scholarships and finding ways to expand development opportunities to support our extremely talented faculty. I very much look forward to serving this prestigious institution in my new capacity and to working with the great team of trustees, donors, volunteers, faculty, and staff who make it so impressive.”