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Richard J. Schwartz Director of the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art

Cornell University, Northeast Ithaca, NY, United States


Richard J. Schwartz Director of the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art Location: Ithaca, New York, United States.

Published: March 30, 2026.

To Apply Cornell University has engaged Russell Reynolds Associates to lead this search. All applications should be submitted to

JohnsonMuseum@russellreynolds.com

and include a resume and a brief statement of interest. Applications will remain strictly confidential.

The Department The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art opened in 1973. Designed by I. M. Pei & Partners, it is named for benefactor Herbert F. Johnson. The museum offers a permanent collection of more than 40,000 works spanning six millennia and includes Asian art, prints, drawings, photographs, modern and contemporary painting and sculpture, European art, African sculpture, textiles, and pre‑Columbian sculpture and ceramics.

The Opportunity The Richard J. Schwartz Director will set strategy and vision, manage teams and resources, cultivate support, and deepen collaboration. The director will serve as the museum’s chief fundraiser, artistically lead exhibitions, set educational approaches, plan acquisitions, and advocate for the value of direct study of works of art.

Candidate Profile

Master’s Degree with 7–10 years of museum experience in curatorial practice, exhibitions, education programming, operations, fundraising, public relations/marketing, and budget management.

Experience setting strategic direction, implementing initiatives, and establishing credibility with faculty and across campus.

Track record of successful fundraising and external engagement; experience managing teams and resources.

Ability to lead during change and advance visibility, impact, and long‑term sustainability of the museum.

Commitment to serving the Cornell and Ithaca communities both professionally and personally.

About Cornell University Cornell is a leading research institution with a dual identity as a privately endowed Ivy League and a land‑grant university. The university’s mission is to discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge, educate global citizens, and promote broad inquiry. Cornell offers a balanced budget and supports a culture of participation and diversity.

EEO Statement Cornell welcomes diverse candidates and is committed to non‑discriminatory practices. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or prohibited discrimination. Cornell conducts affirmative action for qualified veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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