DePaul University in Chicago has announced plans to close its art museum on June 30, citing a significant budget deficit projected for 2026. This decision was communicated by university president Robert L. Manuel in a recent message to students and staff, highlighting ongoing evaluations of the institution's long-term financial viability.
The announcement has ignited a strong backlash from faculty and community members. An open letter authored by art history and philosophy faculty, supported by over 2,000 signatures from the community, labeled the closure as "short-sighted" and urged the administration to reconsider, emphasizing the museum's educational and cultural significance.
This decision follows a series of budget cuts, including layoffs affecting nearly eight percent of the university's full-time staff, as part of a broader strategy to reduce expenses by $27.4 million. The university has noted a decline in international enrollment and an increased demand for financial aid among students.
Laura-Caroline de Lara, director of the museum, described the impending closure as a "devastating loss" for both the campus and the wider Chicago community. She highlighted the museum's unique position as a university art space that fosters discussions around social justice and contemporary issues in ways that larger institutions may not.
The DePaul Art Museum, established in 1985, has been a free and accessible resource for the public. Its mission has centered on creating an inclusive environment that showcases underrepresented artists from Chicago. The university has stated that while it will not sell the museum's building, the future of its extensive 4,000-item collection remains uncertain.
Throughout its history, the museum has hosted exhibitions that connect local history with global issues. For instance, a recent show linked the experiences of incarceration in Chicago to human rights discussions at Guantánamo Bay. Another exhibition explored the legacy of the Young Lords, a Puerto Rican political organization advocating against displacement.
Student engagement has been a core component of the museum's operations, with opportunities for students to curate exhibitions and learn about the arts. Jessica Saunders, a DePaul senior studying advertising and museum studies, expressed her disappointment, stating that the museum was a decisive factor in her choice to attend DePaul.
Phoebe Collins, the museum's collection and exhibition manager, noted that the museum collaborates across various academic disciplines, enriching the educational experience for students from diverse fields.
In their open letter, faculty members warned that the museum's closure reflects a broader trend of diminishing support for the arts in higher education. They argued that now is the time to reaffirm the value of the arts as essential to a comprehensive educational experience.
The university's communications office has not provided further comments beyond the initial announcement. The museum's final exhibitions, featuring works by Barbara Nessim and Alice Tippit, are set to open soon, marking the end of an era for this cultural institution.