Holly Hotchner is a seasoned CEO, social entrepreneur, and strategic not-for-profit leader with over 40 years of experience driving transformative growth and institutional resilience within the arts and cultural sectors. Known for her values-driven leadership, Holly has led organizations through major turnarounds, strategic planning, and sustainable growth, enhancing both audience engagement and financial stability.

As President & CEO of the National Women’s History Museum (2019–2022), Holly was recruited to guide the organization’s evolution, implementing a renewed vision, strategic direction, exhibitions in Washington, D.C, and increased community engagement. Previously, as the Founding Director of the Museum of Arts & Design (MAD), she transformed a struggling institution into a thriving museum with a clear mission, expanded collections, and strong community visibility, growing annual revenue from $1.2 million to $13 million and securing $180 million in capital investments. Her leadership at MAD established it as a premiere destination for contemporary and artistic creativity innovation across many mediums, at one of the most visited cultural institutions in New York.

Earlier in her career, as the Founding Director and Chief Conservator of the New-York Historical Society's Museum, Holly pioneered efforts to professionalize the museum’s operations, elevate its standing in the cultural community, and increase access to its vast collections.

Holly currently extends her expertise as a consultant and advisor, working with boards, board chairs and CEOs to foster organizational sustainability and social impact. She serves on the Board of the National Academy of Design, is a Trustee at Bard Graduate Center, Trustee of Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County. Her memberships include the American Institute of Conservators (Fellow) and International Institute of Conservators (Fellow), American Association of Museum Directors. She has pursued a lifetime of public service, serving on many boards and volunteering with a number of organizations.

Holly holds an M.A. in Art History and a Diploma in Conservation from NYU’s Institute of Fine Arts and a B.A. in Art History and Studio Art from Trinity College. She has completed advanced executive training at Harvard, Yale, Brown and the J. Paul Getty Trust, along with extensive DEI leadership training. Known for driving impactful change and progress, and her expertise in governance and public-private partnerships, Holly is a sought-after speaker on board dynamics and nonprofit best practices, making a lasting impact on the cultural and philanthropic sectors.