The Santa Monica History Museum has appointed Anne Wallentine as its new executive director, effective following her tenure as the museum's curator from 2023 to 2025.
During her time as curator, Wallentine developed several notable exhibitions, including the museum's first exploration of LGBTQ+ history in collaboration with the OUTWORDS Archive, an interactive exhibition on housing history, and a treescape exhibit tied to Santa Monica's sesquicentennial.
Before joining the museum, Wallentine held senior roles at communications agencies, advising Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits on narrative strategy and public engagement.
"Anne combines deep historical knowledge with a profound commitment to community engagement," said Museum President Susan Potter. "Her knowledge of our institution, paired with her vision for participatory public history, makes her the ideal leader to guide the museum into its next chapter."
"The museum is a vital community resource, and I look forward to deepening our partnerships and expanding our programs to ensure every resident feels a connection to our shared history," Wallentine said.
Wallentine graduated summa cum laude in history from Washington University in St. Louis and holds a master's degree in art history from the Courtauld Institute of Art in London. Her writing has appeared in the Financial Times, The Economist, Smithsonian Magazine, The Art Newspaper, and Hyperallergic.
In her new role, she will focus on expanding collaborative exhibitions, school partnerships, and public programming.
Edited by SMDP Staff