Sasha Suda Sues Philadelphia Museum Over Director Dismissal

Sasha Suda, recently dismissed as the director and CEO of the Philadelphia Art Museum, has filed a lawsuit against the institution. This legal action comes after her termination was announced last week, prompting significant media attention.

Sasha Suda’s Legal Dispute with Philadelphia Art Museum

The lawsuit, as reported by major outlets, including the New York Times, accuses museum board members of alleging misconduct related to Suda’s financial dealings. Specifically, they claimed she misused museum funds for personal benefit. The nature of these accusations formed part of a broader investigation led by the museum’s board of trustees prior to her dismissal.

Details of the Investigation

The investigation surrounding Suda remains ambiguous. Sources have indicated that it involved queries about her salary and expenditures. Suda reportedly earned nearly $729,000 in 2023, placing her among the top-paid museum directors in the U.S.

• Suda’s salary increased by $39,000 over two years, attributed to cost of living adjustments.
• The inquiry included reviews of expenses cleared by the museum’s auditing head and questioned her travel costs.

In her lawsuit, Suda described the investigation as a “sham,” arguing that it was conducted to support her dismissal. According to her, the board chair, Ellen Caplan, intensified internal dissent against her after a disagreement over prospective board member Melissa Heller.

Reaction from the Museum

The Philadelphia Art Museum has issued a statement addressing the lawsuit, arguing that it lacks merit. A representative stated their focus remains on the museum staff and upcoming projects for the year. They emphasized the internal nature of the matter, indicating limited commentary would follow.

Context of Suda’s Appointment

Sasha Suda assumed her position at the Philadelphia Art Museum three years ago, following her leadership role at the National Gallery of Canada. Her tenure was marked by challenges, including unrest among unionized staff shortly after she arrived.

Conclusion

Suda’s termination surprised many, especially in light of her recent efforts to rebrand the museum, shifting its name from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to the Philadelphia Art Museum. However, this rebranding faced criticism from some board members, who claimed they were not adequately informed about the changes.

The outcome of Suda’s lawsuit could have significant implications for both her career and the future of the Philadelphia Art Museum.