National Women's History Museum Welcomes Lisa Franklin as CMO to Enhance Digital Strategy

National Women's History Museum Welcomes a New Era with Lisa Franklin

On September 30, 2025, the National Women's History Museum (NWHM) made headlines with the appointment of Lisa Franklin as its inaugural Chief Marketing Officer. This strategic move is designed to enhance the museum's digital-first initiatives and expand its outreach, further solidifying its mission to make women's history more visible and accessible.

Lisa Franklin, a seasoned marketing professional, comes to NWHM with over 20 years of experience in the realms of marketing and communications. Her impressive career spans various sectors, including global brands, sports, and technology giants. Most notably, Franklin served as the Chief Marketing Officer for D.C. United, where she significantly boosted season ticket sales, merchandise sales, and overall fan engagement.

In her new role, Franklin will leverage her wealth of experience to deepen NWHM's impact and broaden its audience engagement. Her past roles have seen her collaborate with high-profile brands such as Amazon, Walmart, and Pepsi, consistently focusing on innovative digital strategies and effective partnerships. This expertise will be pivotal as the museum aims to connect historical narratives with contemporary digital platforms.

The museum operates from a unique standpoint; as a digital-first institution, it uses technology to create real-time connections between past and present. Franklin's vision aligns with the museum's core mission: to make women's history not only accessible but also integral to the larger cultural conversation. By emphasizing a digital presence, the museum can reach audiences far beyond its physical confines, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of women's contributions throughout history.

Franklin's appointment follows the launch of NWHM's bold new campaign, "She Is Not a Footnote," which seeks to redefine women's roles in history and inspire future generations. This initiative showcases the importance of embedding women's stories within broader societal narratives, thus making them more relatable and engaging, particularly for younger audiences.

In addition to her marketing responsibilities, Franklin will play a crucial part in the NWHM's operational strategies, focusing on technological integration and process improvements. By enhancing internal systems, she aims to streamline operations, bolster efficiency, and ensure that the museum's mission is executed effectively.

Susan Whiting, Chair of the NWHM Board of Directors, expressed excitement about Franklin's arrival, noting that her experience reflects both a 'business imperative' and a 'cultural opportunity.' This timing is seen as critical for the museum, marking a pivotal point for visibility and operational excellence.

Founded in 1996, the National Women's History Museum stands as a key institution dedicated to elevating women's history. It operates independently from the Smithsonian and impacts millions through its innovative exhibitions and educational programs. The museum's commitment to making women's history not just a part of the narrative but a focal point reflects its belief in the necessity of equity and representation in telling America's story.

As NWHM embarks on this new chapter under Franklin's leadership, the museum is set to expand its digital initiatives and strengthen its relationships with corporate partners who are equally invested in promoting women's roles in society. The future of NWHM looks bright as it aims to inspire and educate through the stories of women who have shaped our world.

In the end, Franklin's tenure is anticipated to be marked by growth in community engagement, expanded visibility for women’s stories, and a powerful reimagining of how history is conveyed to future generations. With a firm commitment to operational excellence and an innovative approach to marketing, the NWHM is ready to take on new challenges and opportunities, ensuring that women's contributions to history are celebrated and understood.