Columbia Museum of Art appoints interim director as executive director search progresses

The Columbia Museum of Art’s board of trustees have appointed Robin Waites, former executive director of Historic Columbia, as the interim executive director of the Columbia Museum of Art while the museum conducts a search for a permanent leader following the departure of Della Watkins. During her term, which begins April 1, Waites will focus on fundraising and business continuity.

“As the CMA enters this period of transition, we are pleased and fortunate to have Robin step into the interim leadership role,” says Therese Griffin, president of the CMA board of trustees. “Robin has been a longtime supporter of the CMA and understands the importance of its mission to Columbia, the state, and the region. She will help ensure continuity of operations while also helping to bridge the museum’s stewardship efforts.”

Watkins, who has served as the museum’s executive director since 2017, is stepping down from her role to take care of her elderly parents in Virginia. Upon this announcement in October of last year, the CMA board of trustees formed a search committee to conduct a thoughtful process to identify a new executive director. They secured the firm Museum Search & Reference, which specializes in museum leadership recruitment, on December 31. The search launched in late January, with the call for applicants open through March.

Waites has devoted her career to the nonprofit sector, with a special focus on cultural arts and historic preservation. Her leadership journey includes transforming organizations to achieve sustainable growth and community impact. As executive director of Historic Columbia, Waites oversaw the transformation of the historic buildings and grounds, established an expansive community engagement program in Columbia and Richland County, and worked with local partners and grassroots advocates on several major historic preservation efforts.

A lifelong resident of Columbia, Waites is well-equipped to work with the various constituents and issues that are key factors in the success of arts and culture in South Carolina’s capital city.