PAFA Announces New Appointed President for Historic Museum and College

Last December, the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) announced that Eric Pryor would be appointed as president of the historic museum and college. Pryor’s role began in early January. 

According to PAFA’s online press release, Pryor comes from the Harlen School of Arts (HSA), where he had been president since 2015. During his time at HSA, Pryor was able to obtain a major gift that allowed the school to undertake its first major renovation in 40 years. 

Previously Pryor served as Executive Director of The Center for Arts Education, was Executive Director of the New Jersey State Museum, and President of the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. 

“I am profoundly honored to be taking on the leadership of this historic and celebrated institution,” Pryor told PAFA. “I am eager to work in partnership with the PAFA board, staff, faculty, students, and alumni, and start writing its next magnificent chapter together. I’m also delighted to be returning to Philadelphia and its varied communities. It is a city of great art and artistry, with PAFA as one of its crown jewels.”