The American Alliance of Museums (AAM), has announced that president and CEO Laura Lott will stand down, effective 15 June 2023. The upcoming AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo in Denver, Colorado, will be Lott’s final meeting as president and CEO of the organisation.
Lott was the first woman leader in AAM’s 110-year history and launched several groundbreaking initiatives during her tenure. She established the Alliance’s first department of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion and led advocacy efforts to secure federal relief funding for museums during COVID-19.
Following her 13 years of leadership at AAM, Lott will take up a new position at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. As administrator of the popular museum, she will lead its operational, architecture and sustainability strategy.
Brooke Leonard, who is the current AAM chief of staff, will become interim CEO while the Board searches for the next leader of the organisation.
Ensuring a smooth leadership transition
“Over the next couple of months, I will work closely with Brooke, our leadership team, and the board to ensure a smooth transition and seamless continuity of our work on behalf of the museum community,” says Lott.
Following almost a decade of membership growth, AAM enters this leadership transition at an exciting period. In response to comments from thousands of members about what they need most from AAM, it is implementing the activities outlined in the 2022–2025 Strategic Framework. This entails investing in the museum community to offer more open and welcoming possibilities for people to network with and learn from colleagues in related fields, pursue professional development, and take part in leadership and other volunteer activities.
See also: AAM’s Laura Lott on COVID-19, crisis and community
Lott led a transformational period
“The next President & CEO will lead a strong and agile team dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our field,” says Lott. “It has been a tremendous honor to serve with the talented individuals on AAM’s staff and board, along with thousands of volunteers, who all work tirelessly to support the museum community.
“I rarely look back, but I am so proud of what we have accomplished together as a true Alliance.”
This includes two transformational strategic plans, an 80% increase in funding for the Office of Museum Services at the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and $3 billion in federal relief, which saved thousands of museum jobs and many museums from permanent closure during the pandemic.
It also includes a sustained focus on equity and inclusion through the Facing Change: Advancing Museum Board Diversity & Inclusion initiative, and the continued integration of DEAI principles across AAM’s policies and programs.
A new role for a talented museum leader
“We are delighted to welcome Laura Lott to the National Gallery as our next administrator,” says Kaywin Feldman, director of the National Gallery of Art. “Laura is a proven leader with deep expertise in the challenges and opportunities facing America’s museums.
“While leading the American Alliance of Museums, she has demonstrated her commitment to excellence in museums, championing diversity and inclusion, and advancing initiatives in environmental sustainability. Laura is an authentic leader, and I am confident that National Gallery staff will appreciate her warmth, energy, and good humor.”
As well as overseeing the hundreds of National Gallery staff, Lott will manage a nearly $100 million annual budget for operations and building renovations. This will include the multiyear master facilities plan and the implementation of the institution’s new sustainability program.
“This opportunity to continue serving the museum field—and to serve our nation—is an incredible honor,” says Lott. “My career so far has fueled my passion for lifelong learning, inspirational spaces and experiences, taking care of our planet, and the power of museums. I am inspired by the National Gallery’s mission and values, and I look forward to working with the talented team at the National Gallery to welcome all people to explore and experience art, creativity, and our shared humanity.”
The 2023 AAM Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo will take place from 19 – 22 May in Denver. The organisation recently announced that its keynote speaker for this year’s event is Gregg Deal, a multi-disciplinary artist and activist.
