Shanita Brackett

Shanita Brackett is the acting director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, where she champions the museum’s mission to deliver transformative visitor experiences rooted in education, engagement and cultural understanding. Since joining the museum in 2016, Brackett has played a central role in shaping the museum’s growth and innovation. 

Most recently, she served as managing director for museum operations, overseeing critical functions, including finance, human resources, procurement, IT, facilities and emergency preparedness. Her leadership was especially vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she guided the museum through complex safety protocols and expanded virtual learning initiatives.

Previously, Brackett was the museum’s Walmart Assistant Director for Visitor and Guest Services, where she led a team of 125 staff and volunteers and implemented technology-driven strategies that enriched the experience of more than 3 million visitors. 

She also was the acting director of the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum, where she launched the acclaimed exhibition, “A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, DC.” The exhibition spotlighted the role of arts education in shaping Black identity, creativity and civic life.

As a recognized voice in museum innovation, Brackett co-authored “Tools and Approaches for Transforming Museum Experience,” a publication exploring how AI and data analytics can enhance cultural engagement. She has also served as a program co-chair for Museums and the Web and the American Council for Technology and Industry Advisory Council. As a member of The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, she judges both the Webby and Anthem Awards.

Including her tenure at the Smithsonian, Brackett has spent nearly two decades in public service, with a focus on science, communications and program leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering and a Master of Science in management of information technology from the University of Virginia. Brackett continues to advocate for museum spaces as powerful platforms for lifelong learning, digital innovation and public engagement.

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SI-105-2025