Overview

• James Rondeau has voluntarily stepped away from his role as president and director of the Art Institute of Chicago during an independent investigation into his conduct.
• The inquiry follows an alleged incident on an April flight from Chicago to Munich, where police were reportedly called after a passenger, identified as Rondeau, removed his clothes mid-flight.
• Anonymous sources suggest the incident occurred after Rondeau consumed alcohol and prescription medication, though these claims remain unverified.
• Rondeau’s tenure at the Art Institute has been marked by significant achievements, including securing a $400 million art donation in 2015 and a $75 million funding pledge in 2024 for new galleries.
• The museum has emphasized the seriousness of the investigation, reflecting broader accountability standards for cultural institution leaders.