STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Noble Maritime Collection has promoted a longtime staff member to lead the Staten Island Museum as it celebrates its 40th anniversary next year.
Megan Beck, who joined the institution as an intern 13 years ago, was appointed executive director by the museum’s Board of Trustees. She succeeds Ciro Galeno Jr., who is leaving after 20 years with the organization.
“Megan Beck has been integral to the Noble Maritime Collection’s growth and intellectual vitality for more than a decade,” said Steve Kalil, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her leadership and dedication to telling inclusive and historically grounded stories make her exceptionally well suited to guide the museum into its next chapter.”
Beck was quickly promoted to curator after starting as an intern and has developed expertise in the work of maritime artist John A. Noble, the museum’s namesake.
She is also recognized as an authority on the history of Sailors’ Snug Harbor, the former 19th-century retirement facility where the museum is housed.
Her research on people of color who lived and worked at Sailors’ Snug Harbor earned her admission to the NYC African American Institutions Convening, a collaborative network of cultural organizations. Most recently, she curated We Who Are Weary, an exhibition exploring untold stories in Sailors’ Snug Harbor history.
Galeno’s tenure included several major achievements. He navigated the museum’s first leadership transition in 2018, managed the restoration of a Victorian-era ceiling mural in the landmarked building in 2023, and oversaw its admission to the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ Cultural Institutions Group earlier this year. That milestone strengthened the museum’s long-term financial stability and public support.
“As a native Staten Islander and lover of art and maritime history, it was the honor of my life to lead the Noble Maritime Collection,” Galeno said. He will volunteer as a consultant for the museum while becoming treasurer of Caddell Dry Dock and Repair Company in the new year.
Beck noted that next year marks the museum’s 40th anniversary, which will be celebrated with the Ruby Anniversary Campaign.
Donations to the campaign will be matched 2-to-1 by the Staten Island Foundation as part of the Diamond Matching Grant Program.
Beck holds a master’s degree in library and information science from Pratt Institute and a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Boston University.
The Noble Maritime Collection is located at 1000 Richmond Terrace at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden.
The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. Admission during regular gallery hours is by donation.