The National Women’s History Museum has elected Deborah Brittain to its Board of Directors, marking a move to strengthen national leadership and advance the organisation’s digital-first strategy focused on education, innovation and audience engagement.
The appointment was announced on January 8, 2026. The Museum said Brittain’s election reflects its coast-to-coast reach and its ongoing efforts to expand how women’s history is shared and accessed across the United States.
Brittain is a civic leader, philanthropist and advocate for equity, with decades of experience across higher education, national nonprofits and cultural institutions. Her work has consistently focused on expanding access, strengthening organisations and developing future leaders, particularly women. Most recently, she served as Past President and Chair of the Association of Junior Leagues International, where she supported leadership development, governance modernisation and nationwide member engagement within the global organisation.
“Deborah’s exceptional expertise and passion align perfectly with our commitment to modernize how women’s history is experienced, shared and understood,” said Frédérique Irwin, President and CEO of the National Women’s History Museum.
Speaking on her appointment, Brittain highlighted the current relevance of the Museum’s mission. “At this moment in our country, when women’s contributions are too often minimized or erased, supporting the National Women’s History Museum feels both necessary and urgent,” she said.
“NWHM is not only preserving women’s history, it is bringing it to the forefront of our national narrative through education and innovative, accessible platforms,” Brittain added. “I am honored to help advance this work at a moment when it matters more than ever.”
A graduate of Howard University and an Honorary Trustee of Simmons University, Brittain has held long-term leadership roles spanning higher education, health and social service organisations. Although she spends much of her time in Florida, she joins a Board made up of leaders from across the country, reflecting the Museum’s national footprint and its ability to reach millions each year through digital exhibitions, education initiatives and public engagement.
As the Museum continues to modernise its platforms and storytelling approaches, Board members bring experience in media, technology, education and audience engagement to support growth and relevance at scale.
“Advancing our mission requires leaders who understand how ideas move and how audiences engage today,” said Susan Whiting, Board Chair. “Deborah brings deep expertise in education and leadership and joins a board with decades of experience in media, communications, and digital transformation. That combination positions us well for what’s ahead.”
“The strength of this Board is intentionality,” added Singleton McAllister, Board Vice Chair. “Deborah’s experience complements a leadership group built to guide a modern digital-first institution that educates, inspires, and reaches people wherever they are.”
