Brooklyn Children’s Museum on Wednesday announced that Tanya Layne has joined its Board of Trustees, bringing decades of legal and financial experience to the institution as it continues expanding programs for children and families across the borough.
Layne currently serves as Chief Legal Officer at Gagosian, where she oversees the legal department for the gallery’s international network. Her professional background spans both law and finance, with previous roles at major firms and cultural organizations including Sotheby’s, Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP and Price Waterhouse LLP.
Over the course of her career, Layne has worked at the intersection of art, finance and law, advising major institutions and helping navigate complex legal and business matters within the cultural sector. Her expertise is expected to support the museum as it continues strengthening its governance and advancing its long-term mission.
“It is an honor to have an opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees of the Brooklyn Children's Museum,” Layne said in a statement. “It is a unique institution that plays a vital cultural role in New York City, and I am looking forward to lending my expertise to support the great work that is ongoing.”
Layne’s academic background reflects both her legal training and financial expertise. She earned a law degree from Harvard Law School before beginning her legal career. Earlier, she graduated magna cum laude from Baruch College with a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting.
A lifelong New Yorker, Layne was born and raised in the city and now lives in Brooklyn with her family. Her connection to the museum predates her official appointment to the board. She previously served as an ex-officio mayoral appointee to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum Board of Trustees, where she was already involved in helping guide the institution’s work.
In addition to her involvement with the museum, Layne has contributed to the arts community through several leadership roles. She previously served as chair of the board of directors of Company SBB, an interdisciplinary contemporary dance-theatre company that blends movement, theater and multimedia performance. She also served as a member of the Art Law Committee of the New York City Bar Association, where legal professionals examine issues related to art law, cultural heritage and intellectual property.
“Tanya brings a wealth of experience, thoughtful leadership, and a deep commitment to community and service that aligns strongly with BCM’s mission,” said Atiba Edwards, president and chief executive officer of Brooklyn Children’s Museum. “Tanya will be an invaluable contributor as we continue to expand and strengthen our impact on children, families and communities.”
As the museum continues to grow its reach and programming, board members play an important role in guiding strategy, supporting fundraising efforts and helping the institution maintain its long-standing commitment to accessible learning for families across New York City. Layne’s appointment adds another experienced voice to that effort as the organization builds on more than a century of serving children and caregivers.
“Tanya has already made a meaningful impact as an ex-officio member, and we're excited to welcome her to the board,” said Board Co-Chair Amanda Sue Nichols. “She brings fresh thinking, a collaborative spirit, and ideas that will strengthen our work and support our leadership team.”
