Pauline Willis Named Director of American Federation of Arts

New York , New York -- 13 December 2011

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Pauline Wilils

New York (December 13, 2011) – The American Federation of Arts (AFA) is pleased to announce that Pauline Willis has been named its next Director. During her nine years with the organization, Ms. Willis has gained a broad knowledge of the AFA, as Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Director and, most recently, as Chief Operating Officer. She has had extensive experience with the development of exhibitions, fundraising, and general management and has demonstrated both strong leadership skills and a deep commitment to the organization. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, AFA President Jason Herrick said, “We are extremely fortunate to have Pauline’s expert leadership. She has an astute grasp of the ways in which the organization can adapt and innovate in the ever more global exhibition domain, and the AFA’s Board of Trustees is confident in her ability to bring her vision to fruition.” In accepting the position, Ms. Willis stated, “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to lead this distinguished organization. I am enormously enthusiastic about maintaining the high standards and wonderful programs for which the AFA is known while at the same time developing exciting new international opportunities. I look forward to working with the esteemed board of trustees and the dedicated and talented staff in this new capacity.”

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Media Contact: Michaelyn Mitchell, Director of Publications and Communications, 212.988.7700 x228 or mmitchell@afaweb.org

About American Federation of Arts:

American Federation of Arts: The AFA is a nonprofit institution noted for its exceptional exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. Over the years, millions of visitors in more than 100 museums around the world have experienced more than 3,000 AFA exhibitions. Current and upcoming AFA exhibitions include "Richard Bell: Uz vs. Them"; "Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Gainsborough: The Treasures of Kenwood House, London"; "Gods and Heroes: Masterpieces from the École des Beaux-Arts, Paris"; "Of Heaven and Earth: 500 Years of Italian Painting from Glasgow Museums"; and "Rolling Hills, Satanic Mills: The British Passion for Landscape."