Philadelphia, PA (June 29, 2026)  — The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) America's first fine arts museum and school, announced the appointment of Elizabeth "Liz" Cahill as Chief Development Officer starting July 22, 2026.

Cahill joins PAFA with more than 30 years of leadership experience in fundraising, alumni engagement, campaign strategy, and philanthropic partnerships. Throughout her distinguished career, she has led ambitious fundraising campaigns, secured significant gifts, and built strong relationships with stakeholders.

"We are excited to welcome Liz to PAFA's leadership team," said Kristen Shepherd, President and CEO of PAFA. "Liz brings an extraordinary record of fundraising success and strategic vision. As PAFA celebrates its 220th anniversary and looks toward an exciting future, her expertise will be instrumental in helping us expand our impact, deepen engagement, and advance our mission."

Prior to joining PAFA, Cahill served as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Moore College of Art & Design, where she led fundraising, alumni relations, stewardship, and advancement operations. During her tenure, she directed the College's most ambitious comprehensive campaign, helping secure more than $24.5 million in gifts and commitments through the ImagineMoore Campaign.

Before Moore, Cahill served as Director of Development for the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics at the University of Delaware, where she helped secure nearly $33 million in new gifts and pledges. She also played a key role in launching the University's Horn Entrepreneurship program, which has since become nationally recognized for innovation and entrepreneurial education.

Earlier in her career, Cahill held leadership positions at the University of Pennsylvania, School of Arts and Sciences and the Wharton School, where she contributed to the landmark Making History Campaign, which raised more than $3.5 billion.

"I am honored to join PAFA at such a pivotal moment in its history," said Cahill. "PAFA's unique combination of world-class art, arts education, and community engagement creates tremendous opportunities for philanthropic partnership. I look forward to working with PAFA's supporters, trustees, alumni, and leadership team to strengthen the institution and ensure its continued impact for generations to come."

As Chief Development Officer, Cahill will lead PAFA's fundraising strategy, major and planned giving programs, institutional partnerships, donor relations, and advancement operations, supporting the Academy's mission to inspire, educate, and connect diverse communities through the transformative power of 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
lwillis@pafa.org