The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), a renowned performing arts institution, has announced that its president, Gina Duncan, will be stepping down when her contract concludes in June. This marks the end of a three-year tenure during which Duncan played a crucial role in guiding BAM through significant challenges and transformations following the coronavirus pandemic. The announcement, made on Wednesday evening, did not provide specific reasons for her departure but highlighted her contributions to the organization's resurgence. Her efforts have been praised for enhancing BAM’s standing as a leading venue for both established and emerging artists, while also making it more accessible to diverse audiences. As the board prepares to form a transition committee to select the next leader, they express confidence in Duncan’s legacy and BAM’s future stability.

During her time at BAM, Duncan oversaw several key initiatives aimed at revitalizing the institution. One of her most notable achievements was completing a strategic plan that ensured financial stability amidst post-pandemic uncertainties. Under her leadership, BAM saw an increase in both the number of performances and audience attendance. These accomplishments were particularly significant given the financial struggles faced by many arts organizations during the pandemic, including BAM. Ticket sales plummeted due to performance cancellations, forcing the academy to tap into its $100 million endowment to cover operational costs. In 2023, BAM also had to lay off 13% of its staff to address a substantial structural deficit. Despite these challenges, Duncan managed to steer the organization towards recovery, positioning it for long-term success.

Duncan’s appointment as president was historic, as she became the first person of color to lead the institution. Prior to this role, she served as BAM’s first vice president of film and strategic programming and later as the producing director of the Sundance Institute. Returning to BAM in 2022 felt like "coming home" to Duncan, who expressed deep connections with the artists, staff, and audience. Her leadership during this critical period earned her widespread respect within the arts community. The board chairman, Diane L. Max, acknowledged Duncan’s pivotal role in fortifying BAM’s promise and ensuring its continued relevance as a premier cultural hub.

BAM’s history of leadership has seen both long-serving figures and shorter tenures. Before Duncan, Karen Brooks Hopkins held the presidency for 16 years, followed by Katy Clark who served for five years before stepping down in 2021. David Binder, the former artistic director, left after four years in 2023. With each transition, BAM has adapted to changing circumstances, and Duncan’s departure marks another chapter in this evolving story. While her future plans remain undisclosed, her impact on BAM is undeniable. As she reflects on her time at the helm, Duncan emphasized the unique nature of BAM and the honor of serving during such a transformative period for the arts industry.