Birmingham Museum of Art Announces Departure of Director Graham C. Boettcher

Special to The Times

The Birmingham Museum of Art (BMA) announces that Graham C. Boettcher, Ph.D., The R. Hugh Daniel Director and CEO, will step down from his role effective July 31, 2026, following 20 years of distinguished service to the institution. Boettcher, who began his tenure at the BMA in 2006 as a curatorial fellow and became the museum’s first Curator of American Art before being appointed Director and CEO in 2017, has been named Director and CEO of the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.

Boettcher’s tenure at the BMA has been marked by sustained institutional growth, scholarly excellence and a deep commitment to community engagement.

“Graham’s passion for art and dedication to community engagement has served the people of Birmingham well,” Mayor Randall L. Woodfin commented. “The Birmingham Museum of Art is a treasured resource, not just for Birmingham but the Southeast. Through Graham’s leadership, the BMA has truly lived up to its mission of connecting the people of our city to the experience and joy of art.”

As Director, Boettcher strengthened the Museum’s financial position, increasing the endowment by more than $11.6 million, securing major acquisitions and advancing ambitious exhibitions and programs that elevated the BMA’s national profile. His leadership guided the museum through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while maintaining financial stability and reinforcing the museum’s role as a vital civic resource.

Equally significant has been Boettcher’s emphasis on accessibility, transparency and inclusivity. Under his direction, the BMA advanced as a national model for community-centered programming. He fostered a collaborative institutional culture and expanded partnerships across the city and region, ensuring the museum remains both a cultural leader and an essential gathering place for diverse audiences.

Tricia Wallwork, Chair of the Museum Board, reflected on Boettcher’s impact and next chapter: “Graham has been an inspiring leader whose passion for art and people has transformed the Birmingham Museum of Art. His dedication to ensuring the collection and visitorship at the Museum reflects the community we serve has brought new audiences and art experiences to our state. While we will miss his leadership, we are immensely proud to see him take on this important role at the Norman Rockwell Museum.”

The BMA’s Board has appointed Chantal Drake, the James Milton and Sallie R. Johnson Deputy Director, to serve as Interim Director and CEO beginning August 1, 2026. Drake joined the BMA in January 2023, and has provided substantive oversight across all areas of the museum’s operations.

She brings institutional knowledge and extensive leadership experience, and will continue to work collaboratively with departments to advance the work of the BMA. Before serving in her current role, she oversaw fundraising, membership, corporate partnerships, and institutional communications as Director of Development and Communications at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, in Memphis, Tennessee. Her background, along with her participation in the Getty Leadership Institute and Leadership Birmingham, positions her to ensure a seamless transition and the continuation of fulfilling the BMA’s mission.

The Board has initiated plans for a national search for the museum’s next Director and CEO. Boettcher will continue in his role through July 31, working closely with board leadership and staff to support a smooth and thoughtful transition.

Boettcher shared, “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the Birmingham Museum of Art and to work alongside such an extraordinary team of colleagues, supporters and community partners. Together, we have expanded the museum’s reach and deepened its impact, ensuring that art remains accessible, relevant and meaningful to all. While I am excited for this next chapter, Birmingham and the BMA will always hold a special place in my heart.”

To learn more about the Birmingham Museum of Art, visit www.artsbma.org.