Greetland woman named as museum director of future Obama Presidential Center

Dr Louise Bernard, outgoing director of exhibitions at the New York Public Library, will be charged with presenting the narrative of the Obama presidency and sustaining the legacy of the first African-American president.

The museum is tipped to open in 2021 in the city’s South Side.

She said: “I’m honored to work alongside such a talented team at the Obama Foundation, and to have the opportunity to help guide and shape a museum that is a truly innovative social and cultural institution.

“I look forward in bringing President and Mrs Obama’s remarkable story to the broadest possible audience, and to highlighting the crucial role of civic engagement in a way that is meaningful and inspiring to local South Side residents, and to people across the country and around the world.”

David Simas, chief executive officer of the Obama Foundation, added: “One of the key aspects of the Obama Presidential Center is a museum that does not just tell the story of the Obama Administration, but inspires individuals and communities to take on our biggest challenges.

“We are excited for Louise to join our team and help us develop a museum that is active and engaging. Louise’s impeccable credentials and passion for her work will make her a valuable member of the Obama Foundation team.”

Dr Bernard received her Ph.D. in African American Studies and American Studies from Yale University, an MA in Theatre History, an MA in English Literature from Indiana University-Bloomington and a BA in Drama from the University of Manchester.

She is currently a scholarly advisor to the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina, and sits on the board of the Yale Graduate School Alumni Association.