Darren Walker has been elected as the new president of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., an appointment that is effective immediately. Until now, Walker has served as president of the Ford Foundation, one of the most important philanthropic foundations in the U.S. In July, Walker announced plans to depart the Ford Foundation by the end of 2025.
His 11-year leadership at the Ford Foundation, where he oversaw the distribution of $7 billion in grants, is notable for a significant shift towards addressing inequality. At the beginning of the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Walker spearheaded two groundbreaking initiatives: issuing a $1 billion social bond to support nonprofit organizations; and America’s Cultural Treasures, a $300 million fund with contributions from over 40 foundations and major donors. The latter fund was designed to support 20 cultural institutions that serve communities of color, offering grants ranging from $1 million to $6 million.
During his tenure at the Ford Foundation, Walker also held a position on the National Gallery’s board since 2019. “I look forward to working closely with Darren, who brings a strong vision and knowledge into the role at a vital and exciting time in the National Gallery’s trajectory,” Kaywin Feldman, director of the National Gallery of Art, said in a statement. “We remain committed to our mission of serving the nation and appreciate the partnership of the trustees in realizing this important work.”
Walker will take over from American businessman and art collector Mitchell P. Rales, who assumed the role in 2019. Rales will remain an active member of the board. Walker’s career trajectory has included positions at the Abyssinian Development Corporation and the Rockefeller Foundation. Additionally, he held positions on several prestigious boards, including the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the High Line, Art Bridges, and the Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies.
