CHARLESTON, S.C., June 09, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- International African American Museum (IAAM) President and CEO, Michael B. Moore, along with the IAAM Board of Directors proudly welcomes Blackbaud President and CEO Mike Gianoni as he joins them in leading the effort to build a world-class museum on Charleston’s Gadsden’s Wharf.
“The staff and the Board alike are excited that Mike Gianoni is joining the IAAM board of directors and bringing his leadership experience, his high tech expertise, and his commitment to the community to help guide our project,” said Michael B. Moore. “I’m confident that Mike’s contributions on the board will not only help IAAM create an unparalleled digital experience for visitors, but will also shape the museum’s long-term trajectory in a positive, meaningful and responsible way.”
Gianoni brings extensive business and technology leadership acumen and a rich history of board service to his IAAM board role. Since joining Charleston-based Blackbaud as president and CEO in 2014, the company has experienced record growth and received an array of accolades for its work in the philanthropic sector. Gianoni’s purpose-driven leadership was highlighted recently in a book called Leading with Noble Purpose. Before joining Blackbaud, Gianoni served in various executive leadership roles at Fiserv, Inc. He also served as executive vice president and general manager of CheckFree Investment Services, and the leader of numerous divisions at DST. Gianoni serves on boards of local, national and international organizations and is actively involved in charitable and community development work.
IAAM will be a state-of the-art museum for African-American history that aims to re-center South Carolina’s place in global history and connect visitors to their ancestors through immersive, interactive exhibitions, media presentations, genealogical workshops and resources including DNA gathering and analysis. IAAM will use groundbreaking research to inform modern exhibit techniques, bringing historical events to life.
“I continue to be personally and deeply moved by the mission and vision for the museum,” said Gianoni. “This museum has a story that has to be told. It has to be told from this place, in a modern way, infused with technology and through an engaging curriculum that allows everyone the opportunity to know their heritage and better understand the history that unites us as Americans. I am honored to join the IAAM board to help guide this important project into reality.”
In addition to its board of directors, the IAAM leadership has formed a National Advisory Board that is a testament to the significance of IAAM and reflects the national interest and excitement about Charleston’s role in helping to fully present the story of our country and the central role of African-Americans throughout history.
The IAAM experience will cast these story elements into a rich collage that demonstrates the grace, leadership and opportunity for the future. Wilbur Johnson, Chairman of the Board noted, “The addition of Mike Gianoni to the IAAM Board gives us our 23rd local leader to step up and take on the challenge of shepherding this dream into reality. The IAAM will be a place of reflection, healing and reunion. It will be a place of conversation and learning. It will be a place of growth and hope. It will be a place for all to come learn and grow and leave forever changed.”
About IAAM
The IAAM will be an international center of learning where individuals, families, and groups will advance their understanding and appreciation of American History, particularly the role of African-American in creating the country and world we know today. The IAAM will cover a vast cultural and religious landscape while portraying the story of slavery, war, civil rights and tragedy. The International African American Museum will also be a source of great pride, an institute of excellence and a world-class Museum, not only for Charleston and South Carolina, but also for our country. For more information, please visit www.iaaMuseum.org.