In November, 2024, the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts (BOPA) board of directors appointed experienced communications consultant and former board member Robyn Murphy to become the organization’s interim chair and CEO.
On July 25, Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Board of Directors for the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts (BOPA) announced that Robyn Murphy has been appointed as the organization’s permanent Chief Executive Officer, following her tenure as Interim CEO. The appointment, approved by Mayor Brandon M. Scott and unanimously supported by BOPA’s Board of Directors, affirms Murphy’s leadership skills and deep commitment to the city’s vibrant cultural community.
According to a BOPA press release, “Murphy brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to this position and has demonstrated an unwavering focus on equity, access, and opportunity for artists, cultural workers, and creative communities across Baltimore.”
“Robyn is a lifelong Baltimorean, proven leader and convener who has a vision that deeply understands the creativity, energy, and talent that define Baltimore,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “Her ability to foster innovation, inspire confidence, build and maintain relationships makes her the right person to fill this Important role.”
Murphy is a native of Edmondson Village, and began her interim tenure at BOPA at a time of organizational turmoil, after months of financial issues including the termination of the organization’s annual contract with the city and the resignation of 8 board members. In addition to mending BOPA’s relationship with the Mayor’s Office over the past six months, Murphy worked to rectify longstanding financial discrepancies, and to plan Artscape last May, with Tonya Miller Hall, Senior Advisor for Arts and Culture to the Mayor’s Office.
Since stepping in as Interim CEO at BOPA, Murphy has worked closely with staff, partners, and stakeholders to stabilize BOPA’s core programs while laying the groundwork for meaningful growth.
“It’s an honor to serve the city I love through this new role,” said Murphy. “Baltimore’s creative community is one of the greatest strengths of our city. I’m energized by the opportunity to help elevate its voices, expand its reach, and ensure BOPA remains a strong and responsive partner to artists and audiences alike.”
In a December interview with the AFRO Newspaper, Murphy expressed her leadership philosophy saying, “If there’s one thing people know about me, it’s the level of love I have for Baltimore – my city. I have been fortunate enough to be a stakeholder and philanthropist as it pertains to arts and culture, and I firmly believe that what we are witnessing in Baltimore is a true renaissance. A society is not robust, full or complete without a vibrant and robust arts and culture landscape.”
As BOPA embarks on executing its slate of programming in FY26 — including Free Fall Baltimore, the beloved Artscape festival, and a revitalized Public Art Commission — Murphy’s appointment promises to guide BOPA into an impactful new era.
