In Memoriam: William Reeder, Executive Director Emeritus, Friends of the National Asian Pacific American Museum
Friends of the National Asian Pacific American Museum mourns the passing of our beloved Executive Director Emeritus, William "Bill" Reeder. A visionary leader and one of the founding voices of our organization, Bill’s contributions have left an indelible mark on our mission and community.
Since joining Friends at its inception in 2023, Bill brought to our work the wisdom of a remarkable 30-year career spanning education, arts administration, philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership. His counsel and passion shaped our early direction, and his legacy of strategic insight, generosity, and dedication will continue to guide us.
Bill was a renowned advisor and consultant in the nonprofit world, recognized nationally for his expertise in fundraising, strategic planning, board development, and major gifts. Over the course of his career, he helped raise more than $400 million for education and the arts. His ability to connect institutions with their highest aspirations made him a trusted mentor to leaders and organizations alike.
His distinguished career included leadership roles at institutions such as the Saint Louis Conservatory of Music, the Levine School of Music, the Washington Performing Arts Society, and Opera Music Theatre International. He was the founding Executive Director of the Sallie Mae Trust for Education and served for 14 years as the founding Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University, where he also held the titles of Virginia Eminent Scholar and Heritage Chair for Cultural Criticism.
Bill’s influence extended internationally through his work at the Beijing China Conservatory of Music, where he taught nonprofit management and fundraising. His students, especially those from the George Mason Arts Management program, carry forward his legacy in arts leadership and philanthropy across the globe.
Bill held degrees from Washington University in St. Louis and a certificate in Fundraising Management from Indiana University/Purdue University. He also served on numerous nonprofit boards throughout his life, always with a commitment to service and impact.
We are deeply grateful for Bill’s leadership, mentorship, and unwavering belief in the power of art and education to transform lives. He was a treasured colleague, teacher, and friend.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. Bill’s spirit will live on in the work we do and in the future museum—one that reflects the values that he championed with such heart and conviction.
