In 2007, Lewis was selected to serve the Academy as its President and CEO. During his tenure, PAFA saw the implementation of re-branding initiatives; the establishment of the Academy BFA; the launch of the performance series, PAFA Presents; and new community collaborations including several with the School District of Philadelphia. Additionally, under Lewis' direction, there has been a nearly fifteen percent increase in student applications, as well as an increase in annual giving by 40 percent, and capital gifts made possible the renovation of the Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building's fourth floor. It was also during his tenure that the Academy continued its balanced budget; even through difficult economic times, and by careful planning PAFA did not experience any staff or faculty layoffs.
Brigham joined PAFA in October 2007. Under his leadership, the museum has seen audience growth, including the increase in admissions revenue by 63% in the summer of 2009 over the same period last year; the launch of a comprehensive exhibition and public programs plan; the growth of the collection through more than 300 works of art and several major purchases, and a significant enhancement of its profile. Brigham's commitment to diversity has been evident in the formation of a Community Outreach Committee, the upcoming retrospective for Barkley L. Hendricks, and the planning of the first international retrospective for Henry O. Tanner in 2012.
Prior to his arrival at PAFA, Brigham led a dramatic transformation of the Allentown Art Museum into the vibrant institution it is today. Brigham was also formerly the Director of Collections and Exhibitions and Curator of American Art at the Worcester Art Museum, in Massachusetts.
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