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St. Louis Archaeological Society Board And Officers Resign

Courtesy of AIA Website

The board of the St. Louis Society of the Archaeological Institute of America has resigned following a dispute over plans to sell a collection of Egyptian items.

The group turned to members with previous experience to fill interim slots. Past president (2009) Linda Bickel took over as president, and former president K. Ann Dempsey (1995) joined the board. Neither was available for comment.

The resignations came in accordance with the demands of the national Archaeological Institute of America. 

Last October, the local chapter of the national organization was criticized for its attempt to sell a collection of Egyptian items at an auction in London.  The action was roundly condemned by the Archeological Institute.

At a Jan. 10 meeting, Archeological Institute members voted to demand the resignation of the St. Louis Society’s Board and officers.  The consequence of refusal would be a loss of charter from the AIA. 

According to The St. Louis Society website the group has selected interim board members and officers until official replacements are made. The Society’s website says the transition was effective Monday, Jan. 26.  The decision was the result of a Jan. 25 meeting held by the local board.  

The board’s decision to comply is echoed on the AIA website.

Despite the resignations, the St. Louis board denies any wrong-doing.