After tumultuous period, new Chicago History Museum president looks to the future
<p>The Chicago History Museum has named Michael J. Anderson as its new president and CEO, following a nationwide search to succeed Donald Lassere, who <a class="Link" href="https://www.wbez.org/museums/2026/01/07/chicago-history-museum-president-out-donald-e-lassere" target="_blank" ><u>exited the role in January,</u></a> amid a rocky period for the Lincoln Park institution.</p><p>Lassere’s tenure was marked by staff reductions following <a class="Link" href="https://www.wbez.org/museums/2025/02/12/chicago-history-museum-unionize-employees-union-afscme" target="_blank" ><u>unionization efforts</u></a> at the museum, prompting a rare formal complaint from the <a class="Link" href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/business/2026/05/18/chicago-history-museum-labor-law-firing-employees-unionizing-nlrb" target="_blank" ><u>National Labor Relations Board</u></a>.
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The Chicago History Museum has chosen Michael J. Anderson as its new president and CEO. He was selected after a nationwide search to replace Donald Lassere. Lassere left the role in January after a difficult period for the museum. His time in office included staff cuts after workers tried to form a union.
Why it matters
The museum preserves Chicago's history and offers educational programs for the public. A new leader could shape future exhibits and community outreach.
- Who is the new president of the Chicago History Museum?
- Michael J. Anderson.
- Why did the previous president leave?
- Donald Lassere exited in January after a rocky period that included staff reductions following unionization efforts.
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After tumultuous period, new Chicago History Museum president looks to the future
Sources1TypeCoverageChicago Sun-Times