FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

President and CEO of the Charles H. Wright

Museum of African American History Announces Resignation

DETROIT, December 2, 2005—At its annual meeting for the membership held Thursday, December 1, 2005, Christy S. Coleman, President and CEO of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History announced her resignation effective December 31, 2005.

Ms. Coleman said, “ It is bittersweet that I make this announcement. The joy of expecting another child comes with the harsh reality of the enormous on-going demands of the position on me and on my family. A choice had to be made. I love this museum and the wonderful staff and volunteers with whom I have had the distinct pleasure to work these past six years. Through the incredible successes and difficult challenges, we have persevered because we believed in our shared purpose and vision.”

The Board Chairman Rod Gillum stated “The Board wishes Ms. Coleman the best and respect what was a very personal decision for her. Ms. Coleman’s energy and creative vision have put the museum on the path to recovery. During her tenure, the membership roll grew from 3500 to over 13,000, she envisioned the Legacy Campaign and led efforts that have resulted in over 80% of the $43 million goal raised in 3 years of the 5-year campaign. Additionally, her leadership on And Still We Rise, the new core exhibition is a stellar accomplishment.”

Mr. Gillum further announced that a national search has begun and a successor will be named in the coming months. In the interim, Tyrone Davenport, will fill the role vacated by Ms. Coleman. For the past three years Mr. Davenport has served as Chief Operating Officer for the museum. Prior to his museum position, Mr. Davenport was a Senior Officer at Bank One with over 35 years experience in progressive business and technological expertise. A highly respected member of the community, he was also a member of the museum’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Gillum said, “Mr. Davenport possesses business acumen that is crucial to the museum’s continuing turnaround. He is the right person to keep the strategic initiatives on track in the coming months.”

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, located at 315 East Warren Avenue in the heart of Midtown is open Wednesday and Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission is $8.00 for adults (ages 13-61) and $5.00 for seniors (ages 62+) and $5.00 for children (ages 3-12). Museum members and children under three are admitted free. Call (313) 494-5800 for general information or visit us on the web at www.maah-detroit.org.

MEDIA NOTE: To schedule an interview, contact Raymond Tate, Director of Public Relations & Marketing, at (313) 494-5829 or Norine Howie, Public Relations Specialist, at (313) 494-5864.

###