In recent developments, the president and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum came under scrutiny over her 2024 compensation package, which totaled $856,216, representing a 63% jump over two years—even as the institution suffered a nearly $20 million deficit.
The museum, which charged visitors $36 per ticket and received $4.5 million in public funding, remains unprofitable despite its steady admission revenue. In light of mounting criticism, the CEO’s office fired back, claiming their salaries still lag behind comparable nonprofit institutions—though specific benchmarks were not disclosed.
Meanwhile, families of 9/11 victims and survivors’ advocates have voiced deep anger, calling the excessive pay “a slap in the face,” particularly when the museum itself struggles financially and faces outrage over decisions like storing unidentified remains in a basement—without consulting next of kin.
The controversy continues to spotlight tensions between financial stewardship and preserving a national tragedy’s dignity.