ALBANY, NY.- The New York State Board of Regents and State Education Department Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa today announced the appointment of Jennifer Saunders as Director of the New York State Museum, following a highly competitive national search. Ms. Saunders makes history as the first woman to lead the Museum in its nearly 200-year existence. A nationally respected museum leader, she brings more than two decades of experience guiding cultural institutions through transformational change to best serve a modern audience, with a distinguished record of institutional transformation, enhancing public engagement, promoting inclusive historical narratives, and advancing institutional sustainability.
Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. said, “Jennifer Saunders brings not only an impressive record of organizational leadership and public service, but also a deep understanding of how museums can foster civic dialogue, identity, and lifelong learning. We look forward to working with her to advance the Museum's role as a vital contributor to New York’s educational landscape."
Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa said, "Jennifer Saunders is a visionary leader whose commitment to inclusive storytelling, educational innovation, and community engagement aligns powerfully with the mission of the New York State Museum. Her experience leading state agencies and collaborating with Indigenous nations and educators will ensure the Museum continues to serve as a dynamic cultural and educational resource for all New Yorkers."
Since 2011, Saunders has served as Director of the Washington State Historical Society and the Washington State History Museum, overseeing statewide programs and leading major capital, educational, and curatorial initiatives. Under her leadership, the Museum underwent a sweeping reimagining of its core exhibitions, including transformation of the Great Hall of Washington History and the creation of multiple award-winning special exhibitions. Most notably, she spearheaded This is Native Land, a new permanent exhibition developed in partnership with Indigenous curators that centers Native sovereignty and lived experience, opening this fall.
During her tenure, Saunders doubled the organization’s operating budget, expanded statewide services, and launched impactful public programs such as Black History in Washington—a multi-platform initiative resulting in curriculum-aligned resources, a digital app, and a permanent monument to early Black Pacific Northwest settler George Bush on the Washington State Capitol Campus.
Saunders also led a $10 million statewide capital grant program and enhanced infrastructure for local museums and heritage organizations, establishing new funding pathways and awards that elevated excellence in community-based history. Her leadership and expertise have also positioned her as a key voice within the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), where she has served on the Governing Council and will co-chair the 2026 national conference. In addition, she serves as an active accreditation peer reviewer for the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), underscoring her commitment to advancing best practices and professional standards across the museum field.
Earlier in her career, Saunders served as Executive Director of the Harbor History Museum in Gig Harbor, Washington, where she successfully led an $11.7 million capital campaign and oversaw the construction of a new museum facility. Under her leadership, the museum’s operating budget more than tripled, enabling expanded public access, enhanced programming, and a strengthened community presence. She began her professional journey at the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, where she developed a strong foundation in nonprofit strategy, grantmaking, and philanthropic leadership.
Saunders holds an M.Phil in Politics from the University of Oxford, where she studied as a British Marshall Scholar, and a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Wellesley College.
Dr. Brent D. Glass, Director Emeritus of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and Search Committee Chair said, "Jennifer Saunders emerged as the clear choice to lead the New York State Museum into its next chapter. She combines strategic vision with hands-on experience in collections, education, and public engagement. Her leadership will help to further position the Museum as a national model of relevance, inclusivity, and innovation."
Sarah Van Anden, Executive Director of the Museum Association of New York said, “Jennifer Saunders brings a powerful blend of experience, vision, and collaboration to this critical role. Her commitment to elevating regional heritage, investing in museum infrastructure, and centering historically excluded voices reflects the values shared by museums across New York State. We are excited to welcome her into this leadership position and look forward to working with her to advance the museum field statewide.”
Incoming Museum Director, Jennifer Saunders said, "It is an extraordinary honor to serve as the next Director of the New York State Museum. I am inspired by its rich collections, dedicated staff, and powerful mission to interpret the state's incredible history. I look forward to deepening connections with New Yorkers from all regions and backgrounds, and working together to ensure the Museum is a welcoming, vibrant place of learning, dialogue, and discovery."
Saunders will begin her tenure as Director in the fall. Dr. Glass, who chaired the national search, will remain engaged with the Museum in an advisory capacity to support a smooth leadership transition.
