Buffalo AKG Art Museum names co-directors for the first time in its 164-year history

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum has reached a major milestone in its 164-year history. For the first time since its founding, the institution is adopting a co-director leadership model to manage its future operations and artistic direction.

Cathleen Chaffee, previously the Chief Curator, will serve as the artistic director starting November 1. She takes charge of all art and education initiatives. Jillian Jones, formerly the Deputy Director, steps into the role of executive director with a focus on strategy, financial management, and institutional operations.

The board decided to promote both leaders from within the existing staff. According to Board Chair Alice Jacobs, this decision reflects a desire for a leadership structure as ambitious as the museum itself. The new arrangement replaces outgoing director Janne Siren, whose term concludes on October 31.

Both incoming directors emphasize that their roles are designed to work in tandem. Jones describes their collaborative approach as a way to examine institutional challenges through different lenses to reach better conclusions. The pair intends to prioritize stability while building on recent progress at the museum.

Looking ahead, the new leadership team plans to launch a community listening tour and implement a new strategic plan. Their primary objectives remain financial sustainability and the continuation of the museum's reputation for high-quality exhibitions. This shift signals a commitment to consistency and internal growth for the Buffalo institution.