James Rondeau, the Director and President of the Art Institute of Chicago, will resume his duties on Monday, June 2, following an internal investigation into a bizarre mid-air incident in which he reportedly stripped naked while intoxicated during a transatlantic flight.
The April 18 episode occurred aboard a United Airlines flight from Chicago to Munich, where Rondeau, after mixing alcohol with prescription medication, allegedly disrobed mid-flight. Upon landing in Germany, he was detained by local authorities.
In a statement issued to CBS News, Rondeau expressed remorse:
“I deeply regret this incident and the impact it has had on the museum, my colleagues, and myself. I have dedicated the past 27 years of my professional career to the Art Institute, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue furthering its mission.”
Museum’s Board Backs His Return
Despite the public embarrassment, the Art Institute of Chicago’s leadership has stood by Rondeau, concluding that he remains fit to lead the institution.
“Board leadership… has conducted an independent investigation of this incident and is confident in James Rondeau’s leadership and ability to continue as the President and Director of the museum,” a spokesperson confirmed.
A Longstanding Tenure
Rondeau, who reportedly earns over $1 million annually, has been with the Art Institute since 1998 and was appointed as director in 2016. The museum, renowned for housing over 300,000 works of art, remains one of America’s most prestigious cultural institutions.
While the controversy has stirred public scrutiny, the decision to reinstate Rondeau reflects the board’s confidence in his continued leadership despite the personal misstep.