Phillips Collection receives $15M from Sherman Fairchild for expansion and community access

The Phillips Collection has received a $15 million gift from the Sherman Fairchild Foundation, the largest contribution in the museum’s 105-year history. The funding will advance the museum’s 2025–29 strategic plan by strengthening financial sustainability, expanding community engagement, and upgrading operations. $11.75 million will be added to the museum’s endowment to support long-term planning, staffing, and facility maintenance. Additional funds will expand programming at Phillips@THEARC–the museum’s satellite campus in Southeast Washington, D.C.–including a new immersive art series, while also enhancing facilities and digital asset management systems. The gift positions the Phillips to broaden access, improve stewardship of its collection, and support future growth.