Tacoma Art Museum (TAM) Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Interim Executive Director, Helen McGovern-Pilant. Tacoma Art Museum is an anchor in the city’s downtown area and a gathering place for connecting people to art through thoughtful exhibitions, exciting events, and enriching programs. The museum’s collection of more than 5,500 works emphasizes the art and artists of the Northwest and broader western region.
Sharing about her fondness for TAM McGovern-Pilant said, “Tacoma Art Museum holds a special place in this community, and in my heart. I’m honored to return and to work alongside our talented staff, dedicated trustees, and generous supporters to ensure TAM continues to bring people together around the art and artists of our region.”
McGovern-Pilant returns to TAM after she first served as TAM’s Interim Executive Director in2022-2023. She has previously served as Interim Director of Pierce County Human Service, Interim Executive Director of Palmer Scholars, Interim Executive Director of Workforce Central, and Executive Director of Emergency Food Network. She brings a wealth ofcommunity knowledge and nonprofit experience to guide the organization with strategic vision.
McGovern-Pilant shared, “Strong organizations are built on strong relationships. My focus will be on listening, strengthening our partnerships across Tacoma and the region, and working closely with the board and staff to build a sustainable future for this treasured institution.”
The Board is grateful to McGovern-Pilant as she partners with community, supporters, and staff, to continue to strengthen Tacoma Art Museum’s exhibitions, educational programs, community partnerships, and daily operations.
The permanent Executive Director search is currently in progress with plans for interim leadership to last through early 2027.
About Tacoma Art Museum: Tacoma Art Museum connects people through art, presenting exhibitions and programs that emphasize the art and artists of the Pacific Northwest. Located in downtown Tacoma, the museum is committed to equity, community engagement, and fostering meaningful encounters with art. The museum has developed a national reputation for presenting art in a thought-provoking yet accessible manner, with a strong commitment to Northwest art through its acquisition and exhibition programs. In addition to dynamic exhibitions, nationally touring shows, and historical retrospectives, TAM serves the diverse communities of the region through innovative programming and learning opportunities for all ages, including free community events.
TAM is located in Tacoma’s Museum District, near the Museum of Glass, the Washington State History Museum, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma, and the historic Union Station.