The chief operating officer (COO) of the High Museum of Art has resigned following an internal investigation into financial irregularities that officials say resulted in the theft of approximately $600,000.
According to a statement released by the museum, Brady Lum, who joined the institution in 2019, was responsible for overseeing financial planning, management and control. Concerns first surfaced in December, when leadership identified irregularities and alerted the museum’s Executive Committee and the Woodruff Arts Center Governing Board.
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A special committee was appointed and an outside law firm was hired to conduct an independent review. During the investigation, Lum was placed on administrative leave. The review concluded that roughly $600,000 had been stolen and alleged that Lum used his executive-level position to access and conceal the funds over several years.
The Governing Board has directed the law firm to refer the matter to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for potential criminal prosecution. Federal authorities will determine whether charges will be filed.
In a statement, the Woodruff Arts Center said it does not anticipate any impact on the financial stability or operations of the museum or the broader arts organization. Officials added that an independent forensic auditor and other experts have been engaged to review internal controls and recommend improvements.
Visitors reacted with concern but stopped short of blaming the institution. “The money ought to go to the museum, not in somebody’s pocket,” said one visitor. Another said responsibility rests with the individual rather than the organization.
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Museum leaders emphasized their commitment to transparency and accountability, pledging stronger safeguards to protect donor contributions and community support.