INDIANAPOLIS — There has been a change in leadership at Newfields.
The museum announced Nov. 10 that Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, who had served as president and CEO of Newfields, is leaving. In her place, the board of trustees named Michael Kubacki as interim president and CEO.
Burnette was named president of Newfields in 2022, after the museum began a search for a new leader after a racially insensitive job posting gained national attention in 2021.
“We thank Dr. Burnette for her service to Newfields,” Newfields Board of Trustees Chair Darrianne Christian said in a release. “She helped deepen our relationships with the community and championed the transformative powers of art and nature. We are grateful for her work on behalf of Newfields and wish her well in her future endeavors.”
The Indiana Black Expo and the Indianapolis Urban League released the following joint statement on Burnette's sudden departure:
"Due to the nature of the announcement and the negative perception it has created, the Newfields board leadership owes the community an explanation about the resignation of Dr. Colette Burnette. Dr. Burnette opened the Newfields’ doors to many African American organizations and the entire community, and we have personally witnessed the buzz and excitement around her leadership. We were looking forward to expanding the partnership with Newfields in 2024, which has now come to a complete halt. She has become a pillar in the community and her expertise and leadership are sorely needed in Indianapolis. When a stellar executive “abruptly resigns,” one must wonder again, are we seriously committed to black talent recruitment and retention in Indiana?"
Kubacki has been a member of the Newfields Board of Trustees since 2014, serving as vice chair from May 2021 through May 2023.
“Mike has a track record as a successful leader and manager in both the public and private sectors, deep knowledge of Newfields, and a passion for our mission,” Christian said.
Kubacki, a Pierceton, Indiana, native, is the chairman of Lake City Bank and its holding company, Lakeland Financial Corporation.