Dayton, OH – Sept 16, 2025 – The Air Force Museum Foundation (AFMF) announces that Rorie Cartier, PhD, will step down as Chief Executive Officer in October 2025. Dr. Cartier has served as the Chief Executive Officer for the Foundation since August 2022. During his tenure, Foundation support for the Museum has grown annually. Dr. Cartier also helped lead the development of the first-ever joint strategic plan between the AFMF and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, forging a roadmap that unites both organizations in their shared mission to educate, inspire, and connect the world to Air and Space. His innovative leadership and passion for history and education fostered a culture of pride in service that has strengthened the Foundation’s team and impact.
“Dr. Cartier’s leadership has been transformative,” said CMSAF Gerald R. Murray, USAF (Ret), Chair, Air Force Museum Foundation Board of Trustees. “By deepening the partnership between the Foundation and the Museum, he has ensured greater financial support, clearer alignment, and a stronger future for the world’s premier Air Force museum.”
Building on that recognition, Dr. Cartier reflected on his time with the Foundation and the shared accomplishments achieved under his tenure.
“It has been an honor to serve the Air Force Museum Foundation and to support the mission of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Together, we created a joint strategic plan that unites both organizations in vision and purpose, and we increased financial support to strengthen the Museum’s ability to educate and inspire future generations. None of this would have been possible without the strong and incredibly dedicated team members of the Foundation, whose passion and professionalism inspire me every day, and the generosity of our donors and supporters, whose commitment ensures that the Museum continues to have a lasting and meaningful impact. I am deeply grateful to the staff, trustees, partners, and supporters who made this work possible.”
Looking ahead, Foundation leadership emphasized the importance of continuing this momentum with a seamless transition.
“The AFMF Board of Trustees has begun a search for the Foundation’s next CEO. We are committed to identifying a leader who will continue to build on Dr. Cartier’s successes and ensure the Foundation remains a strong partner to the Museum,” said Sarah Shatzkin, AFMF Director of Human Resources.
