Earlier this week, I announced that I would be stepping down from my position as executive director of MAC. I’ve accepted a position as the Director of Development for the Blanton Museum at The University of Texas at Austin. Larry Morrisey will be taking on the role of interim executive director until the role is filled. The board has already started the search for the next Executive Director. 

Since joining MAC in 2020, we have accomplished a great deal. Increasing MAC’s budget from $3 million to $7.2 million was a significant win. The additional funding we secured toward Mississippi Whole Schools and the Building Fund for the Arts is already having a meaningful impact on our arts communities throughout the state.

Today I am pleased to announce a new brand that better represents MAC and the community we serve. We worked with Jackson-based design firm, Creative Distillery to reimagine our brand, and we are pleased with the results. The new logo features the state flower, a magnolia, using shapes reminiscent of a quilting pattern to honor our rich history of traditional arts.

Another announcement I am excited about is the 2023 Governor’s Arts Awards date. Save the date of February 2, 2023, to attend this distinctive event at the Two Mississippi Museums. Last year we implemented a new fundraising initiative, “Art Crush,” that takes place the evening before the Governor’s Arts Awards. I am pleased that this will return on February 1, 2023. More information can be found on our website.

Departing MAC is bittersweet, but I know the dedicated and talented board and staff will continue the good work of promoting and supporting the arts in Mississippi. 

I have immense gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with my home state and work alongside the incredible artists and cultural workers dedicated to brightening their communities through programs, performances, exhibitions, filmmaking, writing, and public art. 

The artistic talent in Mississippi inspires. I am proud to have made an impact during my leadership. The MAC is integral to our past, current, and future artistic legacy: supporting, promoting, and connecting our rich cultural heritage to our citizens and tourists in Mississippi and beyond. I will continue to be a proud fan, supporter, and promoter of the arts in Mississippi.