PHILADELPHIA, PA (July 1, 2026) — The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), the nation’s first fine art museum and school, is pleased to announce that longtime Trustee Ro King has been named Chair of the Board of Trustees, succeeding Don Caldwell, who returned to the role of Board Chair over the past two years and helped to position PAFA for continued growth.

King has served on PAFA's Board of Trustees since 2014 and most recently served as a Board Vice Chair.  During her tenure, she has provided leadership across the institution, serving on the Executive, Development, Finance, Marketing, Nominating and Governance, and Admissions Committees, while also contributing to PAFA’s Strategic Planning Committee and Long-Term Sustainability initiatives.

A respected business leader, entrepreneur, educator, and philanthropist, King spent more than 25 years in strategic marketing and co-founded the consulting firm Quaero, which was successfully acquired in 2009.  She has since served as an angel investor and advisor to early-stage companies in the United States and Hong Kong. She has been a steadfast supporter of PAFA, contributing to special exhibitions and student initiatives, underwriting fundraising efforts, co-chairing the annual gala, and championing major institutional campaigns that have strengthened PAFA’s mission and long-term sustainability.

“Ro brings an extraordinary combination of strategic vision, business expertise, and unwavering commitment to PAFA’s mission,” said Kristen Shepherd, President and CEO of PAFA.  “For more than a decade, she has been one of the Academy’s most dedicated champions.  Her leadership, generosity, and passion for advancing artists and arts education make her exceptionally well suited to guide PAFA as we continue to build on our 220-year legacy and shape the future of American art.”

“PAFA has spent more than two centuries demonstrating that a museum and school of fine arts belong under one roof and carrying that model into a new era is central to my approach,” said King.  “As we begin a new strategic planning cycle, we will focus on honoring our legacy while making sure PAFA keeps earning its place at the center of American art.  I look forward to working alongside Kristen, my fellow Trustees, staff, students, alumni, and supporters to advance PAFA's essential mission.”

Beyond PAFA, King has built an impressive record of leadership in historic preservation and ensuring educational access, including efforts to remove barriers for first-generation college students.  She currently serves in leadership roles with the World Monuments Fund and has chaired several international heritage organizations.  Her dedication to expanding educational opportunities and preserving cultural heritage reflects her lifelong commitment to strengthening communities through arts and culture.

As Board Chair, King will lead PAFA’s board through a strategic planning year focused on defining the Academy’s long-term priorities and attaining financial sustainability, while working closely with PAFA leadership to strengthen community engagement, continue educational excellence in training aspiring and emerging artists, and expand PAFA's presence in Philadelphia and its role as a national leader in American art.

About the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts  

Founded in 1805, PAFA is the first art museum and school in the United States. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, PAFA advances the transformative power of art through its world-class museum collection, exhibitions, public programs, and distinguished school of fine arts.  

Media Contact: 
Lisa Willis 
Director of Marketing, Communications, and Event Services 
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)
215-351-4127 
lwillis@pafa.org