High Museum of Art COO resigns amid missing funds probe

Internal investigation found financial irregularities at Atlanta's largest art museum

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The chief operating officer of the High Museum of Art in Atlanta has resigned amid an investigation into the museum's finances. Brady Lum allegedly misappropriated around $600,000 over a period of several years, according to the Woodruff Arts Center's CEO and President Hala Moddelmog. The organization believes Lum acted alone and has referred the matter to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Why it matters

The High Museum is the largest art museum in the Southeast, and this incident raises concerns about financial oversight and accountability at major cultural institutions. It also comes at a time when museums are facing increased scrutiny over their governance and management practices.

The details

The internal investigation began after financial irregularities were discovered at the High Museum before Thanksgiving. COO Brady Lum tendered his resignation on December 9th. Woodruff Arts Center CEO Hala Moddelmog stated that the organization believes Lum acted alone in misappropriating around $600,000 over a period of 3-4 years.

  • The internal investigation began before Thanksgiving 2025.
  • Brady Lum resigned on December 9, 2025.

The players

Brady Lum

The former chief operating officer of the High Museum of Art who resigned amid an investigation into missing funds.

Hala Moddelmog

The CEO and President of the Woodruff Arts Center, which oversees the High Museum of Art.

High Museum of Art

The largest art museum in the Southeast, located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Woodruff Arts Center

The parent organization that oversees the High Museum of Art.

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What they’re saying

“We must get to the bottom of this and hold anyone accountable who has violated the public's trust.”

— Hala Moddelmog, CEO and President, Woodruff Arts Center (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

What’s next

The matter has been referred to the U.S. Attorney's Office for further investigation and potential criminal charges.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of strong financial oversight and accountability at major cultural institutions like the High Museum. It will likely lead to increased scrutiny of the museum's governance practices and procedures to prevent such incidents from happening again in the future.