Jamaica-born cultural leader Tamara McCaw has made history with her appointment as president of the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), becoming the first Jamaican-born individual to lead one of New York City’s most iconic cultural institutions.
The Brooklyn-based performing arts organization recently announced McCaw’s appointment, marking a significant leadership transition for one of the United States’ most influential cultural institutions. She becomes the organization’s third president in the past decade and takes on the role at a pivotal time for arts institutions navigating post-pandemic recovery and evolving community engagement.
In her new role, McCaw will work closely with BAM’s board of trustees and senior leadership team to shape the institution’s strategic vision and guide its next phase of growth and development. Her appointment represents a major milestone for Caribbean representation in American cultural leadership, placing her among a small number of Caribbean-born executives heading major arts institutions in the United States.
“This is a deeply meaningful moment for me both professionally and personally as someone shaped by Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage,” McCaw said in a statement. “I am honoured to lead an institution that has long been a beacon for artistic innovation and inclusion.”
Born and raised in Jamaica, McCaw has often credited her upbringing with shaping her appreciation for the arts as a powerful vehicle for storytelling, community-building, and social connection. Throughout her career, she has championed initiatives designed to elevate underrepresented voices and strengthen cross-cultural dialogue.
McCaw brings more than 25 years of experience in arts administration, philanthropy, and international cultural development. Prior to her permanent appointment, she served as interim president for approximately nine months while the institution conducted a global search.
According to BAM, McCaw is a seasoned executive leader with a proven track record of advancing mission-driven cultural institutions through visionary leadership, operational excellence, and deep community engagement. The organization noted that her experience building and scaling programs, leading complex teams, and securing transformational funding makes her well-positioned to guide BAM through its current period of transition.
Most recently, McCaw served as co-founder and chief strategist of Public Assembly, where she advised boards, executive leaders, and nonprofit organizations on strategic planning, governance, organizational design, and program development. She also previously served as chief civic program officer at The Shed, where she was part of the institution’s founding leadership team.
Her connection to BAM spans several years. McCaw previously served as the institution’s inaugural Mikki Shepard Curatorial Fellow and later led government affairs, community programming, and engagement efforts, further strengthening her longstanding relationship with the organization.
Looking ahead, McCaw said her priorities include stabilizing the institution while strengthening community partnerships and expanding strategic development efforts.
“The future of the arts depends on our ability to connect across cultures and create spaces where every voice can be heard,” she said. “BAM has always been a place where bold ideas thrive, and I look forward to building on that legacy.”
Board members highlighted McCaw’s strategic vision, leadership experience, and deep understanding of the institution as key factors in her selection. They also pointed to her track record of fostering cross-cultural partnerships, which aligns with BAM’s long-term goals.
Her appointment comes as arts institutions across the United States continue to reimagine their roles, balancing financial sustainability with expanded commitments to accessibility, diversity, and representation.
Like many cultural organizations, BAM experienced a decline in membership and ticket sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, audience attendance has steadily rebounded, with the institution reporting approximately 700,000 visitors and US$15.5 million in ticket revenue in 2025.
Founded in 1861, the Brooklyn Academy of Music has earned a global reputation for presenting groundbreaking works in theatre, dance, music, and film. The institution has also played a central role in the cultural revitalization of Brooklyn and remains a cornerstone of New York City’s arts landscape.
McCaw’s appointment has already drawn strong support from the Caribbean arts community and diaspora, where it is being viewed as a significant moment for representation at the highest levels of cultural leadership.
.){kind=link}