Press Release

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Appoints Cindy Shaw as Chief Development Officer

Philadelphia, PA — September 15, 2025 — The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Cindy Shaw as Chief Development Officer. Shaw brings more than 25 years of experience in business, education, and the nonprofit sector, with expertise in advancement, fundraising, and strategic community engagement.

Most recently, Shaw served at The Haverford School, where she led initiatives that increased philanthropic support and contributed to the success of two major capital campaigns. She also held leadership roles with professional associations, including the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), where she advanced the use of global alumni engagement metrics.

Shaw began her career in geo-environmental consulting, managing projects focused on environmental site investigations and health risk assessments. She also served on numerous nonprofit boards and committees, including Commercial Real Estate Women Greater Philadelphia, and the Wharton Alumni Club of Philadelphia. Cindy is driven by a deep commitment to empower communities and improve the lives of others, which inspires her to participate in various professional associations and social sector organizations.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Syracuse University, a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Tufts University, and a Marketing Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.


About PAFA  

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is the United States’ first school and museum of fine arts. A recipient of the National Medal of Arts, PAFA offers a world-class collection of American art, groundbreaking exhibitions, and exceptional educational programs. Through its museum and school, PAFA is committed to telling America's diverse story through art and expanding who is included in the canon of art history. Esteemed alumni include Mary Cassatt, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, William Glackens, Barkley L. Hendricks, Violet Oakley, Louis Kahn, David Lynch, and Henry Ossawa Tanner.  

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Lisa Willis 
Director of Marketing, Communications and Event Services 
lwillis@pafa.org 

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Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Appoints Cindy Shaw as Chief Development Officer
Last Updated
September 22, 2025 - 11:33 AM

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About PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is the United States’ first school and museum of fine arts. A recipient of the National Medal of Arts, PAFA offers a world-class collection of American art, innovative exhibitions of historic and contemporary American art, and educational opportunities in the fine arts. The PAFA Museum aims to tell America's diverse story through art, expanding who has been included in the canon of art history through its collections, exhibitions, and public programs, while classes educate artists and appreciators with a deep understanding of traditions and the ability to challenge conventions. PAFA’s esteemed alumni include Mary Cassatt, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, William Glackens, Barkley L. Hendricks, Violet Oakley, Louis Kahn, David Lynch, and Henry Ossawa Tanner.