BREAKING: Alexandra “Sasha” Suda, recently dismissed as Director and CEO of the Philadelphia Art Museum (PhAM), has filed a lawsuit today, November 10, 2023, claiming unlawful termination and breach of contract. This explosive legal action follows her termination “for cause”, which Suda argues lacks any valid justification.
Just hours after the Philadelphia Inquirer reported an external investigation recommended her departure, Suda’s lawsuit exposes potential misconduct within the museum’s governance. She alleges a “small, corrupt faction of the Board” orchestrated a “sham investigation” that ultimately led to her dismissal.
The lawsuit highlights critical allegations that Suda was terminated while negotiating her exit, pressured to accept a severance agreement that would allow museum officers to disparage her publicly while limiting her severance pay to just six months—far below the two years outlined in her original contract.
Additionally, Suda, a Canadian citizen, faces the dire consequence of losing her eligibility for a Green Card, as her severance package was reportedly delayed until January, giving her only 60 days to exit the U.S. with her family. This personal crisis amplifies the urgency of her legal fight.
“Suda seeks to hold the Museum accountable for its bad faith, its unlawful termination, and its deliberate effort to destroy her career and reputation,” the lawsuit states.
PhAM has responded, stating they believe the lawsuit is “without merit” but have declined to comment further at this time. Suda’s legal team has not yet provided additional details in response to inquiries.
Throughout her tenure that began in 2022, Suda aimed to transform PhAM’s culture and financial health. Despite facing board resistance, she achieved significant milestones, including reducing the museum’s deficit by two-thirds and generating nearly $17 million in revenue for Fiscal Year 2025. However, her efforts were met with alleged hostility and interference from board members, notably former Chair Leslie Anne Miller and current Chair Ellen Caplan.
The lawsuit details how Miller purportedly undermined Suda’s leadership through unauthorized decisions and verbal abuse. After Miller’s exit, Suda claims that Caplan’s leadership continued to obstruct her progress, including a biased review of her performance and secret meetings intended to undermine her standing.
In a shocking turn, after a board vote of confidence initially favored Suda—8-2—Caplan allegedly manipulated subsequent proceedings to characterize Suda’s legitimate expenditures as misconduct. This culminated in a second vote that reversed the earlier decision, leading to Suda’s termination.
This legal battle not only raises questions about the governance practices at PhAM but also has significant implications for Suda’s career and personal life. As the situation unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the museum responds and what the future holds for Suda.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops further, impacting the art community and governance practices at institutions across the country.
