Crystal Bridges Museum President Resigns

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art announced Monday that Don Bacigalupi, museum president and board member, is leaving to accept a position as founding president for the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Chicago, which is proposed to open late 2018.  

Bacigalupi’s last day as president will be Jan. 14, according to a press release from the museum. He will, however, maintain his position on the museum’s board.

“Don’s achievements at Crystal Bridges have been numerous, and many of our successes are attributable to his guidance leading up to the opening of the museum and continuing into our highly successful next three years,” Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges founder and board chair, said in the press release. “He came on board when the museum was in its early stages, guiding our direction through the building phase and helping to shape the development and exhibition of our art collection.

“His expertise in overseeing the launch of new institutions makes him an ideal leader for the Lucas Museum, and we’ll be applauding his accomplishments. We are pleased that he will retain his connection to Crystal Bridges as a member of our board,” Walton said.

Bacigalupi started with Crystal Bridges in 2009 as executive director and was named president in February 2013. The museum opened Nov. 11, 2011.

“Leading Crystal Bridges through its construction, opening and early years has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience and honor,” Bacigalupi said in the press release. “I am so proud to have worked with such an incredibly passionate and capable team of staff, board, and volunteers to achieve such extraordinary successes. I often say that we’ve made a good start at Crystal Bridges, and I look forward to the great momentum continuing. I’ll be a lifelong friend and fan.”