Fired Director Sues Philadelphia Art Museum for Unlawful Termination

On November 4, Sasha Suda was dismissed from her position as the director and chief executive of the Philadelphia Art Museum (PAM). In response, she has filed a lawsuit claiming unlawful termination, seeking a jury trial for breaches of contract and unfair treatment. The lawsuit, submitted on November 10 in Pennsylvania state court, demands two years’ severance pay and additional damages.

Background of the Lawsuit

Suda’s termination allegedly stemmed from conflicts with a faction of the museum’s board. According to her complaint, this group undermined her leadership by attempting to influence staff and damage board relations. The New York Times first reported on the lawsuit.

Institution’s Response

A spokesperson for the Philadelphia Art Museum chose not to comment on the lawsuit. A different statement provided to The Art Newspaper asserted the museum believes the claims are unfounded and will refrain from further comments at this time.

Legal Representation

Suda is represented by attorney Luke Nikas from the law firm Quinn Emanuel. He alleges that a group of trustees conducted a deceptive investigation, creating grounds for Suda’s dismissal. Nikas emphasized Suda’s commitment to the museum and her desire to clear her name.

Allegations Against the Board

The lawsuit outlines numerous ethical violations purportedly committed by current and former board chairs, Ellen Caplan and Leslie Ann Miller. Key allegations include:

• Bypassing Suda’s authority in personnel decisions.
• Failing to investigate serious complaints against a board member.
• Manipulating narratives around Suda’s salary adjustments.

Investigation Findings

The law firm hired for a “forensic investigation” into Suda’s compensation did not find misconduct. However, it propagated a narrative undermining her financial management, suggesting she should resign.

Termination Details

Suda reportedly learned of her termination while hosting delegates from prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery of Art and the Tate. This sudden dismissal jeopardizes her immigration status, as she faces the risk of losing her Green Card within 60 days.

Achievements During Tenure

Despite the contentious environment, Suda had notable successes at the museum:

• Surpassed fundraising goals, obtaining $16.7 million in FY 2025.
• Doubled capital funding, increasing it by $2 million.
• Boosted student visits from 8,000 in 2021 to 38,000 in the 2023-24 academic year.

Just days before her termination, she secured a verbal commitment for a $25 million donation aimed at constructing a new education center.

Previous Background of Suda

Before leading PAM, Suda was the director and chief executive of the National Gallery of Canada. She took the reins of PAM during a period marked by turmoil, following the resignation of her predecessor, who faced allegations of workplace misconduct. This transition period included a three-week strike initiated by museum workers advocating for union contracts, coinciding with Suda’s arrival.