Philadelphia Art Museum Director Files Lawsuit After Dismissal

**Alexandra Suda Sues Philadelphia Art Museum After Termination**

Less than a week after her dismissal as director and CEO of the Philadelphia Art Museum (PhAM), Alexandra “Sasha” Suda has filed a lawsuit against the institution, claiming unlawful termination and breaches of her employment agreement. This legal step follows an external investigation, prompted by a board committee, which influenced her exit.

Suda contends that a faction of the board orchestrated a sham investigation to force her out. She was terminated “for cause” even as she negotiated her departure. A critical issue in her complaint is that her severance package was offered in a manner that could jeopardize her Green Card process, affecting her family’s residency.

Despite reducing the museum’s deficit and initiating diversity programs, Suda alleges facing resistance from the board. She accuses former Board Chair Leslie Anne Miller, current Chair Ellen Caplan, and Vice Chair Osagie Imasogie of undermining her and exerting undue influence. The suit highlights Caplan’s bias during a confidence vote, leading to Suda’s eventual termination after she declined to sign a new severance agreement.

PhAM claims the lawsuit is meritless and refrains from further comments, while Suda seeks damages for her supposed wrongful termination and the attempt to tarnish her professional standing.