Press Room
Brooklyn Children’s Museum Announces Departure of President and CEO Stephanie Hill Wilchfort, Names COO as Acting President
July 18, 2023
Brooklyn Children’s Museum (BCM) today announced President and CEO Stephanie Hill Wilchfort, who has led the institution for nearly nine years, is stepping down in August to join the Museum of the City of New York as the Ronay A. Menschel Director and President. The Board of Trustees has unanimously appointed Atiba T. Edwards, the current Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, to serve as Acting President and CEO upon Wilchfort’s departure.
Under Wilchfort’s leadership, BCM flourished into a cultural and educational focal point in Crown Heights, providing transformative experiences for children, families, and the Central Brooklyn community. Wilchfort stabilized BCM’s finances, guided the institution through economic headwinds and the COVID pandemic while overseeing the completion of four major capital projects that include a state-of-the-art auditorium and a public library through a partnership with New York City. Wilchfort’s accomplishments include expanding BCM’s programming, strengthening partnerships with local schools and organizations, and spearheading initiatives to make the museum more accessible and a place for everyone.
“Stephanie’s transformative vision and unwavering commitment has elevated the Brooklyn Children’s Museum to new heights, enriching the community and the lives of children and families in Central Brooklyn and across New York,” Board Chair Amanda Sue Nichols said. “We are grateful for her outstanding leadership, which has brought innovation and excellence to every facet of BCM.”
Nichols continued: “While we are sad to see her go, we are excited for her next chapter and what she will accomplish at the Museum of the City of New York. Stephanie leaves BCM after placing it in a very strong position with substantial growth in visitation and earned and contributed revenue.”
In his interim role, Edwards will oversee daily operations, long-term planning, exhibitions and programming, and fundraising, and he will manage the overall finances of the institution. Edwards will also maintain the responsibilities of the Chief Operating Officer, his role since joining BCM in February 2019.
The Board of Trustees is forming a committee to oversee the transition process and determine next steps.