The Milwaukee Public Museum has hired Katie Sanders, former executive director of Milwaukee nonprofit organization Safe & Sound, as its first chief planning officer.
The new role will focus on exhibit and visitor experience planning, space planning, partnership exploration and coordination, planning and execution of lobbying efforts, public relations, and building and construction planning.
The new role comes at an important time for the institution. MPM is under new leadership after Ellen Censky took the helm as permanent chief executive officer and president in June. Museum leaders are also in the process of identifying a site in Milwaukee’s downtown for its new home that will replace its aging 400,000-square-foot facility at 800 W. Wells St.
As it lays the groundwork for a new building, Censky has said MPM is also focused on reinvigorating the institution’s current programming.
“Katie’s leadership experience, excellent project management skills, and relationships throughout Milwaukee and the state will be a great asset to the museum,” said Censky. “This is an exciting time for the museum as we continue to set our strategic vision for the museum’s future all while continuing to welcome visitors and conduct cutting-edge scientific research at our current location.”
Sanders has led Safe & Sound, which works with youth, community organizations and law enforcement to reduce crime in Milwaukee, since 2014. Prior to becoming executive director, she was development and marketing director for Safe & Sound, director of corporate and foundation relations at Marquette University and director of development at the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
“I am honored to be joining the Milwaukee Public Museum as chief planning officer,” Sanders said. “MPM is a beloved institution in our Milwaukee community, and I look forward to working with the museum team to help in carrying out the vision for the future.”
