The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) has announced that its CEO, Heidi Zuckerman, will be stepping down at the end of the year, citing a desire to focus on her media company and podcasting endeavors.
Table of Contents
Key Facts
- Heidi Zuckerman has been the CEO of OCMA since 2021.
- She is the 13th director of the museum since it opened in 1962.
- She oversaw the opening of the new 53,000-square-foot campus at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in 2022.
- The new campus has already drawn 500,000 visitors in the two years since it opened.
- Zuckerman will help in the search for a new museum director.
Statement from Heidi Zuckerman
“Serving as CEO and director of OCMA has been an extraordinary privilege, and I am deeply grateful to have played a role in shaping this institution and its connection to the community. The vision for a world-class contemporary art museum for the 21st century in Orange County has become a reality, embraced by visitors, artists, and supporters alike. As I look forward to what comes next, my commitment to the arts, to making art accessible for all and this vibrant cultural landscape remains unwavering.”
Museum Officials React
- David Emmes II, chairman of the museum’s board of trustees, praised Zuckerman as a “trailblazing force at OCMA” and stated that she “has elevated OCMA to unprecedented heights.”
- He commended Zuckerman’s dedication to bringing world-class exhibitions and thought-provoking programming to the community.
A New Chapter
- Zuckerman will focus on her media company, HZ Inc., which includes her podcast About Art.
- She stated that she wants to “make art accessible for all” and continue to “expand access to the arts.”
- OCMA officials will help in the search for a new museum director.
Impact of the New Campus
| Year Opened | Attendance |
| 2022 | 500,000 |
| Former Annual Attendance | Half the size |
Funding for Free Admission
- Funding for free admission for 10 years
- Lugano Diamonds
- A gift from Lugano Diamonds to support free admission for 10 years.
Heidi Zuckerman’s Legacy
Heidi Zuckerman will be remembered as a leader who has shaped the OCMA into a world-class contemporary art museum, connecting it to the community and bringing art to a wider audience.
Quote from David Emmes II
“Though it is always bittersweet when someone decides to embark on a new chapter, we are excited to witness the great strides Heidi will continue to make in expanding access to the arts.
About the Author