CHICAGO, IL.- Susanne Ghez, who has led The Renaissance Society since 1973, has informed the Board of Directors of The Renaissance Society of her intention to step down from her position as Executive Director and Chief Curator in January 2013. Over the course of her 40 year tenure in this role, Ghez has established The Renaissance Society as one of the leading presenters of contemporary art in the world, and has introduced the Midwest to numerous artists whose works have since become icons of contemporary art.

Jennifer Levine, President of the Board of Directors, thanked Ghez. “Susanne Ghez built The Renaissance Society’s international reputation by establishing ambitious exhibition and education programming. Through her leadership, The Renaissance Society has achieved a standard of excellence for programming that meets or exceeds any other institution in the world. Her long service has demonstrated her commitment to contemporary art in Chicago. We have all benefited from her intellectual rigor, her distinct aesthetic sensibility, and her adventurous spirit. The Board is committed to continuing her work of finding and supporting new art.”

Levine continued: “The Board seeks to build upon Ghez’s willingness to take risks and her commitment to outstanding original programming. With the museum’s Centennial coming in 2015, this is a pivotal moment for The Renaissance Society. We will seize this opportunity to take The Renaissance Society into the next phase of its history by honoring the museum’s past successes while simultaneously exploring new directions and reaching new audiences."

Ms. Levine announced that the Board has formed a transition committee that is working with executive search firm Phillips Oppenheim to identify the museum’s next leader. “Thanks to Susanne Ghez’s leadership, the museum is in a strong position. With a dynamic board, a dedicated staff, and a solid financial base, the museum is poised for future growth.”

In announcing her departure, Ms. Ghez stated, “In my 40 years at The Renaissance Society, I have learned a great deal, made deep and lasting friendships in Chicago and around the world, and experienced the great joy of helping artists to create new work and develop their vision. I am now ready to take on new projects. I am thankful for the support of the Board and to my devoted and talented staff. Now is the time for a new generation to build on the successes we have achieved together. I look forward to the next chapter in my career.”