Smithsonian American Art Museum Director Reassigned Following Staff Complaints

Stephanie Stebich has been moved from her position as director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum to a senior advisory role within the Smithsonian Institution. This reassignment followed an investigation by the museum's board of commissioners that lasted several months. Senior staff members had previously submitted a letter detailing concerns about Stebich's management approach. Employees reported experiencing public reprimands, receiving conflicting directions, and witnessing the encouragement of competitive divisions among colleagues. After initially taking indefinite medical leave, Stebich was permanently reassigned once the board fully understood the situation's scope. Jane Carpenter-Rock, the deputy director for museum content and outreach, is currently acting as interim director. The museum is now conducting a search for a permanent replacement to fill the director position.