Governor Kathy Hochul and Commissioner of Education Betty A. Rosa announced on Mar. 13 the members of the New York State Museum Visioning Task Force, a group composed of museum leaders, government officials, educators, historians, science education experts, tourism professionals, and economic development specialists. The task force will help develop a sustainable framework to guide the long-term revitalization of the New York State Museum.
The creation of this task force is part of Phase One in the museum’s transformation efforts launched earlier this year. Its goal is to ensure that future improvements are inclusive and educationally rigorous while reflecting the diversity of New York State and its collections.
“The New York State Museum is one of our state’s greatest cultural treasures. Through this visioning process, we are bringing together experts, educators, and community voices to help reimagine the Museum’s future,” Governor Hochul said. “By modernizing exhibits and creating more engaging experiences for visitors, we will create a new atmosphere that will reflect the richness and diversity of our state and strengthen its role in revitalizing Downtown Albany.”
Commissioner Rosa said, “The New York State Museum plays a vital role in bringing history, science, and culture to life for learners of all ages. By engaging leaders from across the museum, education, and cultural sectors, this Visioning Task Force will help ensure the Museum’s future reflects the full breadth of New York’s stories while strengthening its role as a dynamic educational resource for students, educators, and communities statewide.”
Museum Director Jennifer M. Saunders said that the task force “will help chart a bold and inspiring future for the New York State Museum.” She added that it would honor the museum’s educational mission while encouraging curiosity among visitors.
Other officials also commented on their involvement with or support for the initiative. Empire State Development President Hope Knight said that under Governor Hochul’s leadership there are unprecedented investments being made in Downtown Albany to support economic growth as well as revitalize the museum. Jeanette Moy from the Office of General Services described her participation as an honor and emphasized collaboration with other leaders to shape “the Museum’s next chapter.” Robert J. Rodriguez from Dormitory Authority highlighted Governor Hochul’s investment as evidence of commitment to Albany and noted his anticipation in helping shape a future where “the Museum continues to inspire.” Erika Mallin from NYS Council on Arts expressed hope that revitalization would allow innovative programs for an inclusive experience.
As part of these efforts, there will be statewide community engagement involving educators, families, organizations, and residents whose input will influence future investments at the museum.
This announcement follows ongoing Phase One investments such as new exhibitions, a Kids Zone area, reopening amenities like a gift store and café—all aimed at making the museum more dynamic and accessible.
These developments build upon Governor Hochul’s $400 million investment into Downtown Albany through initiatives like Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP), which includes funding for commercial corridors improvement projects as well as up to $150 million specifically allocated for transforming the state museum.