The nonprofit responsible for the 9/11 Memorial Museum is facing backlash from the families of those who perished in the attacks, primarily due to executive salaries that seem excessive. The museum, which aims to honor nearly 3,000 victims, attracts around 9,000 visitors daily but struggles financially.
In 2020, it was reported that after a six-month pandemic closure, the leadership awarded bonuses to 12 senior staff members at a time when 60% of the workforce was laid off.
The memorial, inaugurated on September 11, 2011, commemorates those lost in the September 11 attacks on the Twin Towers. Despite the museum’s popularity, it incurred a $20 million loss last year, charging $36 for admission and $85 for combined tours.
In total, the nonprofit generated $93 million in 2024, including around $4.5 million in taxpayer contributions, against expenses of $112 million, as documented in its latest IRS filings, which indicate that high executive salaries are a significant part of the expenditures.
- Elizabeth Hillman, the president and CEO, received $856,216 in total compensation, a substantial increase from her predecessor, Alice Greenwald, who earned $502,999 in 2022.
- Joshua Chelwin, the chief promotions officer, earned $486,298 last year, a 78% jump from 2020.
- Alison Blace’s compensation totaled $458,652, while museum director Clifford Chanin saw his earnings rise to $444,999.
- David Shehern, the CFO, increased his pay from $109,938 in 2019 to $432,958.
Among 411 employees at the museum, 13 earn salaries exceeding $100,000. Overall, the 2024 salary total was $34 million, compared to $22 million in 2020, which has created frustration among 9/11 families.
“It’s hard to understand how these salary increases can be justified,” remarked Jim McCaffrey, whose family faced additional pain with these financial decisions.
The $93 million revenue largely stemmed from ticket sales, with private donations contributing only $10.3 million. Government funding has also played a role, primarily from the National Park Service.
Ticket prices have sharply increased, rising 50% since 2015, although visiting the outdoor memorial remains free. The organization’s expenses include substantial salaries, administrative costs, and security services.
Sally Levenhardt, who lost a son in the attacks, criticized the foundation for ignoring families’ concerns. The nonprofit’s financial reports showed a $28 million expense for depreciation of equipment, which the organization contended was non-cash costs.
Experts noted that all nonprofits and businesses account for depreciation, which should not necessarily denote failure. However, a charity watchdog gave the foundation its lowest rating, indicating concerns about fiscal responsibility.
With high-profile board members, including Michael Bloomberg, the museum has faced continuous scrutiny over its funding approach and spending habits. Corbett, a fire science professor, echoed calls for the National Park Service to take control of the memorial.
Levenhardt highlighted the disheartening reality that while salaries rise, necessary community outreach appears neglected. She conveyed feeling hurt by the administration’s decisions, describing them as disrespectful to the memories of the victims.
In 2016, a proposed bill intended to provide the foundation with $25 million annually was passed by the House but ultimately failed in the Senate.
