The Huntsville Museum of Art has received a $1 million gift from longtime supporter Hank Isenberg, a contribution the museum says will strengthen its exhibitions, education programs and community outreach across North Alabama.

In recognition of the gift, the museum’s educational center will be renamed the Isenberg Art Academy, officials announced.

Museum leaders described the donation as transformational, noting that the unrestricted funds will support the institution’s broader mission of connecting people with art while expanding access to arts education throughout the region.

“The Huntsville Museum of Art impacts our community in countless ways — from education and exhibitions to meaningful community engagement and beyond,” Isenberg said in a statement. “This gift reflects a deep belief in the enduring value of the arts and arts education, and I am proud to support an institution that strengthens the cultural heart of Huntsville.”

Isenberg said the contribution will help the museum expand outreach and increase opportunities for arts education, particularly for younger audiences.

“When we start younger, the impact can take root and grow even more powerfully throughout our city,” he said.

Christopher Madkour, executive director of the museum, said the gift will have a lasting impact on the organization’s ability to serve the region.

“Hank Isenberg’s extraordinary generosity will profoundly impact the Museum’s ability to serve this region,” Madkour said. “The Isenberg Art Academy will stand as a testament to his commitment to Huntsville’s cultural future and to the importance of art education in shaping vibrant, creative communities.”

Isenberg is founder and CEO Emeritus of IronMountain Solutions and has been a longtime supporter of the museum. He recently funded the acquisition of Provence (1995), a work by American artist Janet Fish, adding to the museum’s permanent collection.

He also serves as chair of the advisory board for the museum’s annual Skating in the Park fundraiser, which supports museum programs and initiatives.

A dedication ceremony for the Isenberg Art Academy was held Thursday afternoon at the museum’s downtown Huntsville campus.

Founded by the City of Huntsville, the Huntsville Museum of Art operates as a nonprofit municipal corporation governed by a city-appointed board. In addition to exhibitions, the museum offers art classes for children and adults, educational programming, lectures and performances throughout the year.