New York, NY (May 2, 2023) – The Society of Illustrators Board of Directors is pleased to announce they have appointed a new executive director to oversee its organization and Museum of Illustration after a nationwide search. Upon bidding farewell to longtime Executive Director Anelle Miller, who will become ED Emeritus on June 30, 2023, the Board welcomes Arabelle Liepold to lead its nonprofit organization starting on May 22.

 “The staff and I are thrilled about the Board’s decision to appoint Arabelle as the Society’s new leader. She has much experience curating international exhibitions and programs, and will bring a novel perspective to advancing our mission. We look forward to working with her as I transition into the emeritus role that I requested to focus more time on teaching and pursuing social justice causes,” noted outgoing leader Miller.

According to SI President Leslie Cober, “We are grateful to Anelle for her extraordinary leadership over the past 16 years. She has passionately dedicated herself to every aspect of managing our organization while offering quality exhibitions and programs annually. We are tremendously thankful for the enormous amount of time and energy she has given to position the Society for its future success.”

Liepold is a German native and international arts and culture expert with a proven track record in developing strategic partnerships, producing successful events and exhibitions, driving impactful marketing strategies, and exceeding fundraising goals. She most recently served as the Managing Director of Goethe Institute Pop Up Seattle, where she oversaw exhibition and programming operations of the Germany-funded U.S.-based gallery and co-produced more than 100 hybrid events yearly. Liepold holds a Master’s degree in Media Studies, Art History, and American and German Literature, with a focus on Jewish-American Film and Literature, from the University of Konstanz.

Responding to her new appointment, Liepold stated, “I am honored to be selected for this important leadership position at America’s oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to the art of illustration. I look forward to collaborating with the Board, staff, and hundreds of artist members who are committed to educating the public about this vital form of art that spans across multiple cultures and a myriad of illustration genres.”

To learn more about SI’s history, exhibitions, and programs, visit: societyillustrators.org. For further information regarding their leadership transition, contact Director of Communications and External Relations Kate Feirtag at kate@societyillustrators.org.