Syracuse Sun

Emily Dittman has been appointed as the director of the Syracuse University Art Museum, effective October 16. The announcement was made by Elisa Dekaney, Associate Provost for Strategic Initiatives.

“Emily’s steady, visionary leadership has already guided the Syracuse University Art Museum along a successful path and secured its place at the center of campus life,” Dekaney stated. “I am excited to continue working with her to further expand and strengthen the museum as a resource for students, faculty, staff and the local community.”

Dittman has been serving as interim director for two years, overseeing operations, financial planning, alumni relations, fundraising, communications and marketing. She manages a team of six full-time and 14 part-time employees. Her responsibilities also include directing the collections care team in cataloguing and managing storage and environmental conditions.

“I am thrilled to embark on the next chapter of my leadership journey with the arts at Syracuse University,” Dittman expressed. “The museum’s prestigious permanent collection, engaging exhibitions and dynamic programs inspire me daily with their potential to serve as transformative experiences for our community. I am excited for the opportunity to collaborate more closely with our students, faculty, artists and community members during this exciting period of growth for the museum as an arts destination that is welcoming and open to all.”

Dittman's career at the Art Museum began in 2007 when she took on the role of collection and exhibition manager. She managed several programs including SUArt Traveling Exhibition program and Campus Loan program. She later became associate director before taking on her current role.

She has curated exhibitions such as “Impact!: The Photo League and its Legacy” and “Wanderlust: Travel Photography.” Dittman is also involved in teaching museum studies courses at Syracuse University's College of Visual and Performing Arts.

Her academic background includes an M.A. in museum studies, an M.S. in library and information science from Syracuse University, and a B.A. in history from Allegheny College.