Telfair Museums Appoints Caitlín Doherty as New Director Amidst Leadership Changes

New Leadership for a Storied Institution

A New Era for Telfair Museums

The Telfair Museums in Savannah, Georgia, recently announced the appointment of Caitlín Doherty as its new executive director. She is slated to begin her role in October, taking the helm of the institution during a significant period of change and revitalization.

Doherty's Accomplished Background

Before joining Telfair, Doherty served as the director of the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville in Florida. During her nine-year tenure, the museum saw a substantial increase in its endowment, consistent growth in visitor numbers, and an expansion of its collections. Notably, MOCA Jacksonville achieved accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums in 2024, a testament to Doherty's leadership. Her previous experience also includes a role as chief curator at the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum in Michigan, where she organized several impactful exhibitions. She also dedicated time to teaching art history and museum studies at Ireland's Waterford Institute of Technology, and lectured at various prestigious institutions.

The Vision for Telfair's Future

Susan Willetts, Telfair Museums board chair and interim executive director, expressed confidence in Doherty's ability to foster strong relationships within the community and lead the museum forward. Willetts highlighted Doherty's comprehensive understanding of museum operations, encompassing exhibitions, collections, finance, and administration, emphasizing her dedication to building strong connections.

Telfair's Historical Significance and Diverse Offerings

As the oldest public art museum in the South, the Telfair Museums complex comprises four distinct institutions: the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, the Jepson Center, and the Telfair Children’s Art Museum. Doherty expressed her enthusiasm for joining the museum during a time when it celebrates the 140th anniversary of the Telfair Academy and the 20th anniversary of the Jepson Center. She looks forward to collaborating with staff, board members, supporters, artists, and community leaders to build upon the museum’s legacy and shape its future.

Navigating Recent Challenges and Transitions

Doherty steps into her new role as the Telfair Museums navigates a challenging phase. Earlier this year, the institution made headlines following a layoff of approximately 15 percent of its staff, attributed to decreased funding. This restructuring was followed by the resignation of executive director David Brenneman in January, citing medical reasons. These events underscore the critical nature of Doherty's appointment and the importance of her leadership in guiding the museums through its current challenges and towards sustained growt