CLIFTON, NJ.- The Boris Lurie Art Foundation announced the appointment of Stephanie Stebich as its first Executive Director, marking a new chapter following the leadership of Gertrude Stein, the Foundation's Founder and President. Stebich, an esteemed museum professional, most recently served as Senior Advisor to the Undersecretary for Museums and Culture at the Smithsonian Institution. Prior to that beginning in 2017, she spent seven years as The Margaret and Terry Stent Director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM). She officially assumed her new role on April 7, 2025.

"Boris Lurie was an innovative American artist who remains surprisingly under recognized. As a creative force and co-founder of the NO!Art movement, he was dedicated to challenging artistic and cultural conventions," said Stebich. "I have followed the Foundation’s progress over the years and am thrilled by the opportunity to further integrate Boris’s work into the broader art historical discourse. I look forward to expanding the reach of his impactful legacy, highlighting his influence on fellow artists, and advancing the Foundation’s dynamic philanthropic initiatives."

During her tenure at the flagship museum of American art and craft, Stebich significantly increased visitor engagement, prioritized educational outreach by expanding virtual programs and enriched the Smithsonian’s holdings with greater representation of women and artists from under represented backgrounds. Most recently, she spearheaded a multi-year renovation of SAAM’s permanent collection galleries, set to be completed in time for the Smithsonian’s 250th semiquincentennial celebration. She also co-chaired the American Women’s History Initiative, reinforcing her commitment to recognizing the myriad contributions of outstanding American women.

Before joining the Smithsonian, Stebich served as Executive Director of the Tacoma Art Museum for twelve years, where she led transformational initiatives, including the expansion of two new galleries and the acquisition of landmark art and philanthropic gifts. Under her leadership, the museum experienced significant growth in attendance, educational programming, and public engagement.

Ms. Gertrude Stein, the Foundation’s Founder and President, stated “we are absolutely delighted that Stephanie Stebich has agreed to join us as Executive Director following her incredible achievements at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Today, more than ever, the life of Boris Lurie and the principles of our Foundation serve as lodestars in the world of noncommercial, avant garde art, areas in which Stephanie will undoubtedly assist us in making further contributions. Stephanie’s extensive experience and visionary leadership align seamlessly with the Foundation’s mission."

Stebich holds an undergraduate degree in art history with honors from Columbia College, Columbia University, and a master’s degree in modern art from New York University’s Institute of Fine Arts. She also earned a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the Mandel Center for Nonprofit Management at Case Western Reserve University and is a graduate of the Getty Museum Leadership Institute. A respected leader in the museum community, she has served as a trustee for both the Association of Art Museum Directors and the American Alliance of Museums.