The New York State Museum has launched a national search for its next Museum Director with Dr. Brent D. Glass, Director Emeritus of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, leading the effort.
Glass served as Director of the National Museum of American History from 2002 to 2011 when he founded a consulting firm which has since guided more than ninety cultural and educational organizations in executive recruitment, board development, fundraising, and strategic planning, according to an announcement sent to the press.
In January 2024 Mark Schaming, former director of the New York State Museum and deputy commissioner of the Office of Cultural Education, announced his retirement effective July 5th after a 37-year career beginning as the museum’s Director of Exhibitions and Programs in 1987.
Since Shaming’s retirement, the state’s Interim Deputy Commissioner for Cultural Education, Michael Mastroianni has been serving as acting director of the Museum.
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago
The State Museum has been facing criticism over the past decade for its failure to undertake a funded renovation plan.
In January New York State Governor Kathy Hochul said she wants to spend $400 million to revitalize Albany, including committing $150 million to the State Museum.
“The Museum seeks a Director with a proven track record of turning visionary ideas into tangible outcomes — someone whose decisive leadership and emphasis on execution will steer the institution boldly forward,” the press release from the New York State Education Department Said.
“Through innovative exhibitions, expanded community outreach, and robust partnerships, the next Director will ensure that the Museum continues to thrive as a compelling resource—one that resonates with every corner of our diverse state and inspires generations of New Yorkers.”
The position also oversee the State Historian and Office of State History.
You can find additional information about the job and an application here.
Photo: The Cultural Education Center on Madison Avenue in Albany, home of the New York State Library, New York State Museum, and New York State Archives.
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