MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – As it approaches its 100th anniversary, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts has announced the appointment of new executive director. Following a national search, Guy C. Vanderpool was chosen to lead MMFA into its next chapter.
Vanderpool brings more than three decades of museum leadership experience to the role. He has served in leadership roles at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth, Texas, and the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum in Canyon, Texas.
Vanderpool began his museum career in Alabama at the Center for Southern History and Culture at the University of Alabama. His experience includes museum management, fundraising, renovations, government affairs, tourism and community engagement.
“Montgomery has long understood that the arts are an essential part of a thriving city and a strong community,” Mayor Steven L. Reed said. “Guy brings the experience, vision and commitment to public service that can help MMFA reach even more people in Montgomery and beyond. We are excited to welcome him back to Alabama and to our city.”
As a City employee working within MMFA’s public-private partnership, Vanderpool will report to the City Museum Board and Director of Cultural Affairs, Dr. Jennifer D. Dobbs. He will also work closely with the MMFA Association Board.
“I am honored to join the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and lead the Museum into its next chapter,” Vanderpool said. “The Museum’s mission to provide compelling experiences centered on human creativity and engaging the community through outstanding exhibitions and educational programs aligns with my career experiences and commitment to serving the public”
Among his first duties will be hiring additional museum leadership, including a Deputy Director, Director of Development and Curator of Art.
As part of the leadership transition, the museum also thanked Alice Novak who served as interim director.
Dr. Laurie Weil, Vice Chair of the City Museum Board and Immediate Past President of the Association Board said, “Alice Novak, serving as Museum Director, provided extraordinary leadership to support MMFA’s staff, sustain strong relationships with City and County officials, promote MMFA’s multi-faceted offerings to citizens and tourists and strengthen donor support. With unfaltering commitment, Alice will be available to assist Guy as he begins his new post.”
MMFA is a department of the City of Montgomery and operates through a public-private partnership. The City funds MMFA as a municipal department. The Museum also receives annual support from Montgomery County and the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Association, steward of the Museum’s collection. Located in Blount Cultural Park, MMFA offers free admission and parking.
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