Celebrating the Legacy of Gene Gargaro: A Remarkable Journey at the DIA

Updated Dec 5, 2023

From the Director
Gene Gargaro poses with his gift from the DIA.

Gene Gargaro poses with his gift from the DIA at his farewell party in November 2023.

As we approach the end of another very fruitful year, I would like to take a moment to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of our outgoing board chair, Gene Gargaro, Jr. In his 20 years as chair, Gene left an indelible mark on the Detroit Institute of Arts and our communities. His tireless dedication and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping the museum's recent successful history, present and future. 

You can read more about Gene Gargaro's incredible journey and his retirement from the position of board chair in the official announcement on our website.

To commemorate Gene's outstanding leadership and commitment, I invite you to click on the link below to watch a heartwarming video in which Gene shares his insights and reflections on his time as the head of the DIA’s Board of Directors: 

In this video, Gene takes us on a journey through his experiences, highlighting the transformative moments, the challenges, and the inspiring stories that have shaped the DIA's growth over the years. It's a testament to his passion for art, culture, and for our communities. 

Gene's unwavering dedication to our institution has been instrumental in securing the DIA's place as one of the nation's leading art museums. His leadership has paved the way for countless exhibitions, educational programs, and community initiatives that continue to enrich the lives of the residents of our local communities and visitors from all around the world. 

As we reflect on Gene Gargaro's outstanding legacy and tireless efforts, let us also celebrate the power of art to inspire, unite, and transform lives. This December, I encourage you to visit the Detroit Institute of Arts and experience the beauty and wonder of our collections. Gene's legacy lives on through the art that he has helped nurture and protect. 

Join us in celebrating Gene’s incredible journey and the impact he has had on the Detroit Institute of Arts and our communities. Thank you, Gene, for your invaluable contributions, and we look forward to continuing your legacy for generations to come. 

Warmest wishes for a joyful and art-filled December!