Massachusetts Historical Society Names Lisa Krassner, who Served at Several World-Class Museums, as New President
Boston, June 26, 2025–The Massachusetts Historical Society (MHS), the nation’s first historical society and a premier steward of American history, is proud to announce the appointment of Lisa Krassner as its new president. Krassner will officially assume the role in September.
Krassner brings to the MHS more than 25 years of leadership experience in the museum and cultural sectors, including most recently as executive director of the Concord Museum in Concord, Mass. During her tenure, she expanded public engagement through nationally recognized exhibitions and programming and spearheaded a rebranding initiative to modernize the Museum. Under her leadership, the Concord Museum was named the #1 Best Small-Town Museum in the U.S. by USA Today in 2025.
“I’m deeply honored to lead the Massachusetts Historical Society as it continues to evolve and expand its relevance in today’s world,” Krassner said. “As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary, there’s never been a more important moment to examine our shared history, amplify underrepresented voices, and connect the lessons of the past with the challenges and opportunities of the present.”
Krassner’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the MHS, which is in the midst of a dynamic slate of programming that explores the diverse stories, people, and perspectives surrounding the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Events and exhibitions—such as the ongoing “1775: Rebels, Rights & Revolution”—reflect the organization’s long-standing commitment to illuminating complex histories and sparking conversation through scholarship, storytelling, and community engagement.
Krassner most recently led the Concord Museum's commemoration of the Revolution’s start, with a focus on Concord’s place at the epicenter of the monumental events and the “shot heard round the world”.. The museum’s observance of the anniversary featured new exhibits, and a series of forums led by historians and scholars such as Doris Kearns Goodwin.
Prior to her tenure in Concord, Krassner held senior leadership roles at several world-renowned institutions: Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Museum of Natural History, both in New York City. Her professional experience spans strategic planning, fundraising, capital development, curatorial collaboration, and audience-centered innovation.
“Lisa’s deep commitment to history, cultural preservation, and public engagement makes her the ideal leader to guide the MHS into its next chapter,” said Levin H. Campbell, Jr., Chair of the MHS Board of Trustees. “Her background, enthusiasm, strategic mindset, and leadership experience make her a great fit for the MHS. We could not be more pleased to have her on board as we mark the Semiquincentennial and continue to expand our national impact.”
Krassner succeeds Catherine Allgor, who led the organization from 2017 to 2024, and Brenda Lawson, who served as interim president since July 2024. Lawson will resume her role as Senior Vice President for Collections and Content Development.
For a full schedule of Semiquincentennial programs, visit: www.masshist.org/events/series/250.
