Carraro Named Director of the Museum of Art at MSU

Dr. Francine Carraro has been named the Director of the Wichita Falls Museum of Art at Midwestern State University effective September 1.

Carraro has extensive experience in museum administration as she served as executive director at The Grace Museum in Abilene, Texas; the Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor, Maine; and the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

In addition, Carraro's academic experience includes teaching positions at Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University), The University of Texas, and Southern Methodist University as well as special teaching assignments at the University of Nebraska and University of Kent at Canterbury, England.

She earned her Bachelor of Art in Fine Arts from Hendrix College in Arkansas, Master of Fine Art in Art History from Southern Methodist University, and her Ph.D. in American Studies from The University of Texas. Carraro has written several books, published numerous articles, and served as juror and curator of many exhibitions and collections.

"Francine's experience and knowledge of museum operations and higher education make her well-qualified to direct our museum," said University President Jesse W. Rogers. "I look forward to working with Francine as she leads the efforts to transform our museum into a cultural and artistic destination for our university, city, and surrounding area."

The university began significant renovations to the museum's galleries in summer 2010. Efforts are under way to raise funds to start phase two of renovations that include a new main museum entrance, an auditorium/classroom with tiered seating, and new ADA compliant facilities.