The Metropolitan Museum of Art has elected Misty Copeland as a civic trustee. The election took place at the board’s October 1 meeting and was announced the same day.
The museum’s announcement identifies Copeland’s work across dance, publishing, production and philanthropy, including the foundation she created to expand access to ballet. Copeland made history as the first Black woman promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. Her new museum role brings a performing artist and arts-access advocate into the institution’s governance. The Met’s release also notes her participation in its Women’s History Month programming and 2026 Costume Institute Benefit host committee.
Misty Copeland in Coppélia, Abu Dhabi Festival, March 28, 2014. Photo: Naim Chidiac / Abu Dhabi Festival, supplied by Gilda N. Squire via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (VRT permission ticket 2014081710007206). File photograph; display crops may apply. Photo source · License. Resized for web display; layout crops may apply.
