DOYLESTOWN, PA.- After nearly six years at the helm of the James A. Michener Art Museum, Lisa Tremper Hanover has announced that she will retire at the end of the calendar year.

She noted it was a very difficult decision for her, as she has cultivated a lifelong passion not only for art, museums, and cultural leadership, but also because she has developed a very personal connection to the Michener institution and its entire community, including the board of trustees, donors, and staff members. “But after 35 years in this profession,” she said, “it is time for me to step back and refocus on my family and personal priorities that have naturally taken a back seat to a demanding, but ultimately very rewarding, career.”

Under Lisa’s purview, the Michener Art Museum has elevated its profile substantially and has achieved notable milestones: drawing extraordinary worldwide attention and visitors to the 2013 exhibition From Philadelphia to Monaco: GRACE KELLY— Beyond the Icon; the rebranding of the museum and development of the strategic plan; the re-accreditation of the Michener in 2015 by the American Alliance of Museums; the improvement of the museum exterior and outdoor sculpture display; and the launch of a master facility plan study, among others.

“For more than half a decade, we—the Michener and the community alike—have benefitted from Lisa’s involvement and commitment to elevating the Michener Art Museum to national prominence,” said Gregory Church, president of the Michener Art Museum board of trustees.

“Under her direction, we have made great strides in our exhibitions, programs, events, and regional relationships. She has expertly guided us from our 25th year to our 30th year, a critical phase in our evolution to become an internationally significant institution.”

Greg said the board is finalizing a plan to move forward that will ensure there is no disruption to operations. “We are sorry to lose Lisa as our director and CEO,” he said, “but we look forward to her continued engagement as an active Michener member. In the meantime, we are going to move forward quickly and resolutely to select a new museum leader.”