The MFA is delighted to announce Alice Galakatos as the new chair of the Patron Program Committee, succeeding Azi Djazani. Alice brings her passion and experience as an Advisor, chair of the Laurel Society Curators Circle Steering Committee, Gallery Instructor, and dedicated Patron Committee member.

How did you first get involved with the MFA and why?

I became involved with the MFA ten years ago when I joined the Gallery Instructor program and started giving tours to school groups. I did the training and commitment of being a Gallery Instructor because I love art—especially the art of ancient cultures.

I have always been fascinated by ancient cultures. Growing up in Peru, I spent my summers in the coastal desert by the Pacific Ocean, the site of the Paracas and Nazca cultures, which were ancient pre-Inca civilizations. The sand dunes in my backyard were a treasure trove, where I found pieces of ancient pottery and textile fragments that became my first “collection.” After marrying my Greek husband, Nick, and spending our summers in Greece, I became fascinated by ancient Greek art and culture. I have met inspiring archeologists and visited many digs and important ancient sites across Greece. I love to see the past come alive. In my work at the MFA as a Gallery Instructor I have learned so much from the collections that have enriched these experiences, and it has been very fulfilling to explore the interplay of learning and teaching in an area I’m passionate about.

What is your favorite part of serving on the Patron Program Committee?

I really enjoy working with this diverse group of volunteers, staff, curators, and other Patrons who work so well together to support the MFA. Everyone brings different strengths, energy, and creativity to the program. The Patron Program provides vital support to the Museum, which is so important now, more than ever.

As the Committee’s incoming chair, do you have a message you would like to convey to all Patrons?

I deeply appreciate the support and commitment that Patrons provide to the Museum. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to demonstrate generosity during one of the most challenging times in our lives. Cultural institutions like the MFA are particularly vulnerable during these unpredictable social and economic times. Now is a critical time to support the Museum, to ensure that future generations can benefit culturally the same way that we have. I am optimistic that better days are ahead for all of us and I firmly believe that art has the power to connect, comfort, and heal us.

What is the first gallery that you will visit when the Museum reopens?

If I had to pick one, it would be the special exhibition “Monet and Boston: Lasting Impression,” which will be on view when the Museum reopens. It’s so special to see that many Monet paintings displayed together! I am also really looking forward to the opening of the renovated Ancient World galleries, which are undergoing an extensive transformation.