Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts announces new director

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAKA) – The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts has announced a new director as it approaches its centennial in 2030.

Guy Vanderpool will be the museum’s next director, following a national search.

Vanderpool brings more than 30 years of museum leadership experience to the role. For the past decade, he has served as director of development and communications at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth, Texas, where he helped expand community engagement. He previously spent 12 years leading the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in Texas.

Vanderpool began his museum career in Alabama at the Center for Southern History and Culture at the University of Alabama.

“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. I look forward to working with Mayor Steven Reed, Dr. Jennifer Dobbs, the City and Association Boards, as well as the staff, supporters and community members as we build upon the Museum’s great past and extend its impact in Montgomery and beyond.”

Vanderpool’s 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,” Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed said. “As the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts approaches its 100th anniversary, we have an opportunity to build on an extraordinary legacy while thinking ambitiously about its future. 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 Montgomery 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.

As MMFA prepares for this leadership transition, the museum said it is grateful for the leadership and dedicated service of Museum Director Alice Novak throughout the search process.

— Information from the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts