With the original 1822 mission to "advance useful learning" - an appraisal of all assets (collections, exhibits, staff expertise and the building) was undertaken to envision the future of the institution. A recent affiliation with Drexel University and new leadership shaped the planning process, leveraging "useful learning" from a long history of collecting, research and public engagement to tell a different story of how knowledge over a 200 year time frame can be even more relevant today.

IMAGE CREDIT: ANSP

Since you cannot change what you don’t understand, the planning benefited from a full assessment to gain insight of its history, and examine new models. This yielded a solution that propels the existing legacy forward in a way that is fiscally sound and sustainable.

“As a seasoned professional, Walt brought a thoughtful and creative approach to his thorough assessment of the Academy’s current space and proposed several options for the future. He demonstrated a deep understanding of our work — both in our public museum and behind-the-scenes in our collections — solidifying trust among our staff during a complex strategic planning process.”

– SCOTT COOPER, PHD., PRESIDENT & CEO