Museum of Contemporary Art’s new board president gets to work after long tenure as VP

With nearly two decades of experience on the board of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla, Maryanne Pfister is no stranger to the organization’s inner workings. But now she’s leading the group as its new president.

Pfister officially started her presidency July 1, the beginning of the museum’s 2025-26 fiscal year.

But her time as a board member dates to 2006, a year after she and her husband, Irwin, moved to La Jolla. They are the namesake of the Pfister Gallery in honor of their extensive support of the museum.

Maryanne Pfister was the board’s vice president the past 10 years. During that time, she chaired the advancement committee and the capital campaign committee for the museum’s $105 million renovation and expansion completed in 2022.

“I’ve been with the museum long enough to know a lot about its history and see how things have developed over time,” Pfister said. “And I have worked closely with my predecessor, Steve Strauss [who served three years as president], in getting the museum to where it is now. So that was really helpful.”

As Strauss’ term as president was expiring (he remains on the board), MCASD’s nominating committee named Pfister at an annual board meeting in May and she was subsequently approved.

The board meets six times a year, with responsibilities including policy-setting and supporting operations.

Museum Chief Executive Kathryn Kanjo praised Pfister for her experience and vision.

“Maryanne’s extensive experience with our organization makes this transition seamless as we express gratitude to Steve Strauss for his vision and commitment continuing a family tradition of leadership and support,” Kanjo said in a statement.

Pfister’s career began in the corporate world, first in communications in the high-tech industry and later in developing strategic communications plans for companies. She also served as a board member and executive committee member for the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

“I come from the corporate world, and there’s a difference between that kind of leadership and nonprofits,” Pfister said. “But I would say, in this role, I will aim to lead the board effectively in achieving our mission, to get input from all members and have constructive discussions in a collaborative fashion.”

After living in Orange County and Silicon Valley, Irwin and Maryanne Pfister are now retired and living in La Jolla full time.

Maryanne said MCASD has played a key part in their life, even as it changes.

“I think it’s special because contemporary art is always moving,” she said. “It’s very unpredictable just because it is contemporary, and there’s always new things happening … and new artists entering the arena. So it’s very dynamic.”

Four new board members also were welcomed recently — Deidre Buddin, Tao Jiang, Ali Nafii and Alex High.

High is a La Jolla native who was one of the chairs of the museum’s first Avant Garde Ball on May 3.