Community Raises Concerns Over Chicago History Museum Cuts

Staffing reductions and limited research access at the Abakanowicz Research Center prompt worries about the museum's future

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:55am

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Community members and former employees are calling for new leadership at the Chicago History Museum to repair relationships with workers and mend fences with Chicago scholars after the departure of CEO Donald Lassere. They are also asking the museum to restore hours at the Abakanowicz Research Center, which were limited following a decision to reduce its staffers to part-time status. Advocates say reversing that decision will help strengthen the museum's identity as a prestigious institution that informs visitors from all over the world about the history of Chicago and America.

Why it matters

The Chicago History Museum's collection features millions of objects that are vital resources for scholars and students to learn about the city's history, architecture, and culture. Limiting access to the Abakanowicz Research Center could hinder important research and impact the museum's reputation as a leading institution for Chicago and American history.

The details

Following Lassere's exit, the museum board announced a nationwide search for his replacement and appointed Michael Anderson as interim president and CEO. However, the museum has remained tight-lipped about its plans. Some employees allege that positions were eliminated as retaliation for unionization efforts. The museum is also facing financial challenges, with a $1.5 million deficit and a 12% drop in annual revenue between fiscal years 2023 and 2024.

  • On January 7, 2026, CEO Donald Lassere departed the museum.
  • In July 2025, the museum reduced Abakanowicz Research Center staffers to part-time status.
  • In April 2025, workers voted to unionize with AFSCME Council 31.

The players

Donald Lassere

The former CEO of the Chicago History Museum, who cited financial strain as a reason for eliminating positions and reducing research center staffers' hours.

Michael Anderson

The former president of external engagement and development, who was appointed as interim president and CEO of the Chicago History Museum following Lassere's departure.

Warren Chapman

The board chair of the Chicago History Museum, who said the trustees would consider discussing the vision for the institution 'in the months ahead'.

John Russick

The former senior vice president of the Chicago History Museum, who said the organization has 'tremendous assets' and the potential to be 'one of the most important history museums in the country'.

Nell McKeown

A former development events manager at the Chicago History Museum, who left the organization after being disciplined and warned that her job was at risk for allowing an elderly donor to come inside the museum before an event.

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What they’re saying

“The history museum has tremendous assets. It's got an incredible reputation. I think that they will be able to recruit a stellar leader, and there's nothing stopping them from being one of the most important history museums in the country.”

— John Russick, Former senior vice president (wbez.org)

“My former colleagues are hopeful that the museum will begin to right the ship. There is a lot of work that needs to be done to rebuild trust between upper-level management and the hardworking staff that bring their talents to the museum every day to keep it running.”

— Nell McKeown, Former development events manager (wbez.org)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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