ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center Director and CEO James Pepper Henry has resigned effective July 5, 2013, to become executive director and CEO of the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Ariz.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Alaska as the director and CEO of the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center. The many milestones that we’ve achieved over the past six years could not have been possible without a fantastic board of directors and a stellar museum staff,” Pepper Henry said. “I consider myself fortunate to have been involved with such an outstanding organization and welcoming community, and I wish the very best for the Anchorage Museum and its next director.”

During his six-year tenure at the Anchorage Museum, Pepper Henry oversaw the completion of the museum’s $110 million 80,000 square-foot expansion, including the debut of the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center exhibition space and the Imaginarium Discovery Center.

“We congratulate Jim on his new position. He did a wonderful job leading the museum during a period of enormous growth and challenge as we opened a new addition. Although we are sorry to see him leave, we are excited for him and are pleased with all he has accomplished for the Anchorage Museum,” said Susan Knowles, Anchorage Museum Association (AMA) board chair.

The Anchorage Museum Association will begin a search for a new CEO of the association and the museum.

“With its latest expansion, the Anchorage Museum has solidified its role as Alaska’s premier art, history and science institution for residents and visitors alike,” Knowles said. “The museum is healthy and vibrant, and AMA is committed to finding new leadership to fulfill the museum’s long tradition of sharing and connecting Alaska with the world.”