John D. Childs

John D. Childs is an experienced conservator and museum professional currently serving as The James B. and Mary Lou Hawkes Director of Collections at the Peabody Essex Museum since May 2016, where oversight includes conservation, registration, and exhibition planning. Childs has also held significant positions, such as Chair of the Board of Managers at the JANE COFFIN CHILDS MEMORIAL FUND FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH and Chief of Collection Services at the Phillips Library. Notable past roles include Head of Conservation Services at the 9/11 Memorial Museum and Conservator at Historic New England. Childs holds a BA in History from Yale University and an MS in Art Conservation from the University of Delaware, further enhancing their qualifications through additional educational programs in heritage imaging and preservation.