The Board of Directors of the African American Museum of Iowa has announced that Executive Director, LaNisha Cassell, will be stepping down from her role effective Oct. 7.
According to a release, after nearly nine years with the museum, Ms. Cassell will be taking on a new position out of state, following the museum’s annual History Makers Gala.
Ms. Cassell’s leadership, which began in 2017, has been instrumental in overseeing a multi-million dollar renovation project and capital campaign from 2022 to 2024, culminating in the museum’s reopening on May 11, 2024.
During her tenure, the museum experienced substantial growth in programs, exhibitions, and statewide outreach efforts. Ms. Cassell also played a key role in enhancing the museum’s visibility, increasing visitor engagement, and securing essential funding for its ongoing operations.
“We are deeply grateful for LaNisha’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the museum’s mission,” said Abena Sankofa Imhotep, president of the Board of Directors. “While we are saddened to see her go, we fully support LaNisha’s decision and wish her nothing but success in her future endeavors.”
Ms. Cassell successfully spearheaded various local and statewide collaborations and fundraising initiatives, playing a crucial role in advancing the museum’s mission to preserve, exhibit, and teach Iowa’s African American heritage, the release stated.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together at the African American Museum of Iowa,” said Ms. Cassell. “It has been an honor to serve the communities reached by the museum’s resources and to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team and board. While I am excited about this new chapter in my career, I will always cherish my time at the museum and the relationships I have built here.”
Ms. Cassell will be joining Voices Underground in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, as their new executive director. Voices Underground focuses on promoting racial healing through the elevation of the story of the Underground Railroad.
In response to Ms. Cassell’s departure, the museum’s board has begun the search for a new executive director. In the interim, Board President Abena Sankofa Imhotep and Vice President Anthony Betters, Jr. will manage necessary functions, while Deputy Director Brianna Kim will oversee day-to-day operations.
A farewell reception for Ms. Cassell is scheduled for Sept. 24 from 5-7 p.m. at the museum, located at 55 12th Ave. SE in Cedar Rapids. The event is open to the community.
