Kristen Shepherd appointed as the new chief of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), the oldest art museum and school in the United States, has appointed Kristen Shepherd as its new President and CEO, effective February 9. Her selection marks a significant step for the institution as it navigates financial challenges and seeks to revitalize its operations.

Shepherd’s extensive background in museum leadership includes more than five years as the executive director of the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, Florida, and previous roles at prominent institutions such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. These experiences have equipped her with a deep understanding of museum operations, audience engagement, and financial management.

PAFA currently faces a million budget deficit and a notable decline in enrollment, which has decreased by nearly 50% since 2017. To address these issues, the institution announced in January 2024 that it would be discontinuing its degree programs effective at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year, while launching a new certificate program aimed at bolstering revenue streams. Additionally, PAFA has begun to rely more heavily on its endowment, despite concerns from financial experts about the long-term implications of such measures.

Further complicating its situation, PAFA recently undertook renovations of its historic N. Broad Street museum building, which has been closed for upgrades to its HVAC system and other essential improvements. The academy is actively pursuing donations for naming rights to the revitalized facility.

Shepherd’s knowledge of PAFA’s challenges aligns with her commitment to implementation-focused leadership. This perspective, she notes, inspires her rather than daunts her. She has expressed enthusiasm for focusing on financial stability and creating a sustainable future for the institution.

Trustees and search committee members regard Shepherd as a strong candidate who can enhance membership and attract new donors. Her financial acumen, having previously served as a business analyst at Sotheby’s, stood out during the selection process. Shepherd’s diplomatic communication skills are also expected to serve her well as she engages with both the local and national art communities.

As she steps into her new role, significant events are on the horizon for PAFA, including a major exhibition titled “A Nation of Artists,” set to open on April 12, showcasing over 1,000 works from the Middleton collection alongside pieces from both PAFA and the Philadelphia Art Museum. Meanwhile, the institution anticipates launching new collaborative programs with Temple University in late spring, adding to its educational offerings.

With PAFA’s fiscal year concluding at the end of June, the results of Shepherd’s leadership will soon become apparent. The community remains hopeful that current initiatives will steer the academy toward financial stability, setting a positive trajectory for its future endeavors.