MIAMI BEACH, FLA.- Acting Director Casey Steadman has been named Director of The Wolfsonian–FIU, bringing years of leadership, business experience, and civic engagement to his now-permanent role. Steadman has led the institution for 18 months as Acting Director following the departure of Tim Rodgers.

"Director Steadman has successfully steered The Wolfsonian–FIU through the trying times of the pandemic, one of the most challenging chapters in its 26-year history. University leadership applauds his accomplishments, as well as his dedication to student success," said FIU Provost and Executive Vice President Kenneth G. Furton. "We are looking forward to having him lead The Wolfsonian into a new era, one we know will be game-changing."

The Wolfsonian–FIU is a museum, library, and research center devoted to art and design, with a collection of about 200,000 items from the period 1850–1950. The collection includes a variety of media, from furniture and art to rare books and propaganda posters.

Museum founder Mitchell "Micky" Wolfson Jr. praised the selection of Steadman as Director. "Casey Steadman is a natural successor to build on my promise to the City of Miami Beach and its esteemed citizens of a bustling research center brimming with ideas and activity," said Wolfson. "With his steady hand and the marvelous Wolfsonian staff at the helm, it has been a thrill watching my concept of The Wolfsonian as a public resource and world-recognized authority on design be fully realized. This is a true confluence of vision and passion for culture."

As Director of The Wolfsonian–FIU, Steadman plans to continue The Wolfsonian's critically acclaimed exhibition program while also expanding the institutional footprint. Committed to student success, he also plans to work collaboratively with The Wolfsonian Public Humanities Lab to create not only a resource for students, but also one for the entire community, driving a renewed interest in the humanities that bridges public, academic, and civic spheres.

Casey Steadman has been a member of Wolfsonian leadership since 2013, as Deputy Director of Business Affairs and most recently as Acting Director. His key areas of focus include the museum's strategic plan, digital engagement, and an investment in public humanities. In 2020, he engaged the community in a successful City of Miami Beach ballot referendum vote to secure the rights to a Wolfsonian expansion, which will ultimately establish The Wolfsonian Arts District.

Steadman brings years of strategic leadership, as well as financial and operational experience to his new role, having steered capital projects and strategy for The Wolfsonian. Before that, he served as the Atlanta History Center's longtime Chief Financial/Operating Officer.

"I want to ensure that The Wolfsonian is prepared for the future, with an eye towards inclusion, accessibility, preservation, and sustainability. I am honored to be tasked with the stewardship of an institution that has played such a significant role in both South Florida and, for many years, my own life," Steadman said.