The $20 million gift will expand the museum’s educational footprint from under 6,000 sq ft to an estimated 19,000 sq ft, a leap that will enable it to serve more than 36,000 students each year. The new centre will house a family learning area, art studios, and a multipurpose community hub, replacing the shared spaces currently used for classes and meetings.
Julian Brodsky, former vice‑chair of the board, and his wife Lois, a former membership guide, have been pivotal to the museum’s growth since 1995. Their 2005 donation renamed the Brancusi gallery in their honour, while a 2009 endowed photography curator position was also established through their support.
Director of Education John Smith said the increased space will let the museum maintain its free admission policy for under‑18s while expanding guided tours and bus‑transported school visits from the School District of Philadelphia.
MGA Partners will produce the first design draft by summer 2027, with construction slated to start shortly after and finish within a few years, according to the museum’s press release.
Visitor Services Director Emily Chen noted that the museum is evaluating a shift to open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to better accommodate the new learning programmes.