Phil Wallis, who moved to the Vineyard in 2016 to take over the top post at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum will step down, museum leaders said in a press release.
The executive director of the Martha’s Vineyard Museum will step down, museum leaders confirmed in a press release Saturday.
Phil Wallis, who moved to the Vineyard in 2016 to take over the top post at the museum, helped bring an ambitious multi-million-dollar campaign to relocate the museum from Edgartown to the site of the old marine hospital in Vineyard Haven to the finish line.
After a massive renovation project transformed the property into a modern facility to house collections, the museum reopened to the public in the spring of 2019.
“I couldn’t be prouder of all that we have accomplished,” Mr. Wallis said in the press release announcing his departure. “I am a builder and creator of visions, and I came here to help make the longstanding dream of a new museum worthy of the Vineyard come true. Together, with the fantastic staff, board, donors and volunteers and all of the town officials who supported our vision, we were able to build a world class facility that exceeded all expectations. The museum is now ready for a new chapter to be written.”
The museum has been closed during the pandemic, with some programs running remotely.
Mr. Wallis will stay on through the summer as an advisor on special projects, the release said. He and his wife, Carolyn, intend to remain on the Island.
In a letter that went out to museum donors late this week, board chairman Stever Aubrey said Heather Seger has been named interim director. Ms. Seger is currently serving as advancement director at the museum.
Mr. Wallis came to the Vineyard from Philadelphia, where he had served as executive director of the National Audubon Society’s Pennsylvania office. In the press release Mr. Aubrey thanked Mr. Wallis for all he had done, and said a search will be launched for a new executive director.
In his letter to donors Mr. Aubrey said Mr. Wallis is leaving “to pursue new opportunities.”
He also wrote: “In Phil’s words, ‘As we take a national pause on life as we know it, this seems an appropriate time to step down. The museum is now ready for a new chapter to be written to advance the success we have created together.’”
Comments
Phil brought boundless
David Foster West TisburyPhil brought boundless enthusiasm into the new museum, along with a vision that embraced the entire island and all of its people, environments, and history. This is a legacy that everyone should aspire to build on in support of this great institution and staff.
It's too bad he is not
Islander Too TisburyIt's too bad he is not staying longer.
MV is so fortunate to have
P Frederick CT/VHMV is so fortunate to have had this visionary and a strong Board to bring this dream to fruition. Sad to see Mr. Wallis leave but, like an artist, once the vision is realized, he has to move on to the next project. We all benefit from his artistry as the museum is beautiful. Thanks to you and all the island and off-island artisans and tradesmen & women who made the new museum a reality.
The Island and, in particular
Melinda Loberg Vineyard HavenThe Island and, in particular, Vineyard Haven, give tremendous kudos to Phil and his dedicated board and staff for their inspired revisioning of a former island landmark. That majestic institution with a commanding view of the harbor is a lasting legacy of Phil's leadership. I wish Phil and Carolyn the best as they write their next chapter and thank them for the impact they have made on our town.
Phil Wallis along with Anna
Philip Hart Los AngelesPhil Wallis along with Anna Barber and Heather Seger and the MV Museum staff made it possible for us to mount the “Soul Cup: From James Naismith to the Inkwell” exhibit last August. I will always be grateful for Phil’s leadership so that Richard Taylor, Flash Wiley, Duane Jackson and I could actually witness the Soul Cup in the museum along with a compelling and informative exhibit. Best of luck with your next endeavor in life, Phil Wallis!
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