The director of the Art Institute of Chicago, USA will return to his position on Monday, June 2 following an internal investigation into an in-flight incident in which he reportedly stripped naked while intoxicated.
James Rondeau, who earns more than $1 million annually as the museum’s president and director, took a voluntary leave of absence after the April 18 episode during a United Airlines flight from Chicago to Munich. He was detained by authorities in Germany upon landing.
“I deeply regret this incident and the impact it has had on the museum, my colleagues, and myself,” Rondeau said in a statement to CBS News. “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.”
According to reports, Rondeau had consumed alcohol and prescription medication before disrobing mid-flight. The incident prompted the museum to conduct an independent review during his absence.
Despite the controversy, the Art Institute confirmed that Rondeau would remain in his role.
“Board leadership of the Art Institute of Chicago 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 said.
Rondeau, who was appointed director in 2016, first joined the institution in 1998 as an associate curator. The Art Institute of Chicago is home to approximately 300,000 works of art and is one of the most respected museums in the country.
