Executive Director

The Concord Museum has appointed Dr. Amanda Lahikainen as its next Edward W. Kane Executive Director, effective March 15, 2026.

Dr. Lahikainen brings more than two decades of experience as a strategic museum leader, scholar, and dedicated educator, most recently serving as Executive Director of the Ogunquit Museum of American Art (OMAA) in Maine, a role she began in May 2020.

An accomplished museum leader, author, and art historian, Dr. Lahikainen successfully developed and realized a bold strategic plan that positioned OMAA as a catalyst for creative energy, a vibrant center for American art in Maine, and a hub for community engagement and learning. During her tenure, she increased the museum’s annual operating budget year over year, led successful fundraising initiatives, and founded the museum’s education programs.

Originally from Salem, MA, Lahikainen holds a PhD in art history from Brown University and a BA from Wellesley College. She previously taught at Aquinas College, where she was tenured and served as Art Department Chairperson, as well as at Brown University, Rhode Island College, and Roger Williams University. In 2012, she held a Kluge Fellowship at the Library of Congress and has received grants and fellowships from the Paul Mellon Centre and the Lewis Walpole Library at Yale University.

You can read the full press release here.

Rebecca Swartz led this search with Angelo Alexander and Harley Bartles.