S. Sayre Batton has served as the Oshman Executive Director at the San José Museum of Art (SJMA) since 2017. She previously served as the Museum’s deputy director for curatorial affairs from 2015 - 2017.

Since assuming the role of Executive Director, Batton has led the Museum through a period of strategic growth, helping to develop its collection, exhibitions, and staff and deepen its connections with its community.

In 2022 Batton spearheaded the Museum’s reaccreditation process from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), awarded in November 2023, a distinction that demonstrates that the Museum meets the highest standards in stewarding collections, policy and governance practices, and finances.

Batton also provided steady leadership through the pandemic, allowing the Museum to keep its 50 member staff employed.

She was formerly the managing director of Dia:Beacon, Beacon, NY (2010–2015); project director for Modern Views, Philip Johnson Glass House (2009–2010); acting deputy director, Hammer Museum, Los Angeles (2008); deputy director, Honolulu Museum of Art (2005–2008); principal, Art Consulting Services, Los Angeles (1995–2005); associate director, Los Angeles Center for Photographic Services (1993–95); and an NEA Fellow, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (1990–92).

Batton received her BFA degree from Denison University and completed postgraduate studies in Visual Arts at Princeton University. She taught at Princeton University and Otis College of Art and Design.