DePaul University has announced the permanent closure of the DePaul Art Museum (DPAM) effective June 30, citing a projected $27.4m budget deficit for 2026. Despite an open letter signed by over 3,000 students and faculty, the administration is moving forward with the shutdown of the $7.8m facility that has served as a cultural anchor since 2011. Director Laura-Caroline de Lara had successfully raised funds to keep the museum operational through the current season, but the university's leadership remains committed to the closure as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative.
The decision has sparked intense criticism regarding the university's priorities, particularly as it simultaneously plans a $42m athletic facility. The closure threatens the professional training of museum studies students and leaves the future of a 4,000-piece collection—featuring significant Chicago artists like Gertrude Abercrombie and Leon Golub—in a state of uncertainty. This move reflects a growing tension in higher education where humanities and arts infrastructure are increasingly sacrificed in favor of sports and administrative restructuring.