Drexel University faces City Council scrutiny over museum closure

Drexel University came under fire from Philadelphia City Council on Oct. 26 regarding the closure of the Academy of Natural Sciences. The hearing, held by the Committee on Legislative Oversight, focused on the financial rationale for shutting down the public museum and the lack of communication between the university and city officials prior to the decision.

Drexel representatives presented figures indicating that the Academy’s public programs cost $7.7 million annually while generating only $3 million in revenue. The university cited a $150 million backlog in deferred maintenance for the building. According to the testimony, Drexel had provided over $49 million in direct support to cover operating deficits over the previous 15 years. Melissa Richman, the university’s executive director of operations, stated that Drexel could no longer afford the annual $5 million to $6 million subsidy required to keep the institution open.

Suzanne Biemiller, chair of the Academy Board of Trustees, presented different financial data. She reported that the museum’s fiscal year 2025 operating costs were approximately $3.6 million, with revenue of $2.7 million. This discrepancy prompted councilmembers to question whether a smaller funding gap could have been bridged through a partnership with the city.

Frustration mounted during the session when President Antonio Merlo and Deputy Mayor Patricia Wellenback were absent. Merlo remained on campus for a Middle States Commission site visit. Wellenback submitted a written statement claiming she was not the appropriate person to testify on behalf of Drexel or the Academy. Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr. tore up the written statement in front of the audience. He announced that the council would issue subpoenas to ensure key figures appear for future testimony.

Councilmember Isaiah Thomas asked if the museum could reopen if the city and private donors covered its annual operating losses. Richman responded that financial support could make reopening possible if a sustainable operating model and funding for maintenance needs were secured. Councilmember Quetcy Lozada criticized the university for not approaching the city earlier, noting that Drexel had previously sought assistance during periods of financial instability.

The William Penn Foundation offered to cover Drexel’s annual subsidy for one year while longer-term options are explored. As of the hearing, the foundation had not received a response to its offer. Councilmember Anthony Phillips criticized Merlo’s absence, stating that it reflected a lack of care for how the university is perceived by the public.

The hearing did not produce an agreement to reopen the museum. Councilmembers indicated that further scrutiny of Drexel and the mayor’s administration is planned. A follow-up hearing is scheduled for Nov. 16.