Draft:Eric G. Pryor

Eric G. Pryor (born: 1962) is an African-American artist, and president at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. In the world of fine arts and education, Pryor is known for his strategic leadership and extensive experience in museum administration, community-building initiatives, and arts education.

Education
Pryor holds a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University's Tyler School of Art and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from Wayne State University. He also completed Columbia University’s Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofits.

Career
'''Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA): '''

Pryor assumed the role of President at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) in January 2022. Pryor's appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer of PAFA marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first African American leader in the institution's 216-year history.

Pryor's vision for PAFA includes reimagining its future to stay relevant to the community in Philadelphia, nationally, and internationally. This may involve exploring expanded online learning platforms and continuing education programs to adapt to changing needs and dynamics in the arts landscape.

Executive Director Roles: Pryor has held executive director positions at institutions such as The Center for Arts Education (CAE) in New York and the New Jersey State Museum (NJSM), where he revitalized and expanded programming.

Harlem School of the Arts (HSA): Prior to joining PAFA, Pryor served as President of the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA), an interdisciplinary cultural arts center in Harlem. Under his leadership, HSA experienced growth and secured funding for its first major renovation in four decades.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (VAC): At the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (VAC), Pryor spearheaded a successful capital campaign and strategic plan, resulting in expanded facilities and enhanced art education opportunities.

Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation’s Center for Arts and Culture (CAC): Pryor began his arts career as Executive Director of Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation’s Center for Arts and Culture, where he developed innovative arts programs that served as models for community development nationwide.