Courtney Kessel named interim director of the Kennedy Museum of Art

Ohio University has named Courtney Kessel interim director of the Kennedy Museum of Art, effective May 1. Kessel will serve in the role on a part-time basis while continuing her current position as director of Experiential Curriculum Integration in the Office of Experiential Learning. 

“I’m truly excited to join the Kennedy Museum of Art team during this important moment of transition and growth,” Kessel said. “The museum has a longstanding reputation for bringing thoughtful, high-caliber exhibitions and meaningful engagement opportunities to both the University and our broader regional communities, and I look forward to supporting and building upon that work alongside such a dedicated staff. It’s an honor to contribute to the museum’s mission of fostering intellectual and cultural connections through the arts.”

Kessel brings extensive experience within Ohio University and the Chaddock + Morrow College of Fine Arts, having served in a range of roles that connect academic programming with meaningful student engagement. As director of Experiential Curriculum Integration, she collaborates with faculty and campus partners to expand experiential learning opportunities, support reflective teaching practices and advance student success across the University.

She is also widely recognized for her work as an artist, educator and advocate. In addition to teaching BFA Art + Design seniors, Kessel brings a practitioner’s perspective to curriculum design and faculty development, drawing on her expertise in interdisciplinary and experiential learning. Her scholarly and creative work is rooted in reflection, collaboration, process-driven inquiry and applied learning.

An interdisciplinary artist, Kessel’s work has been exhibited and presented nationally and internationally. Working across sculpture, performance, photography, video and sound, her practice explores the often-unseen labor of motherhood. Her long-running performance series, “In Balance With” (2010–present), examines collaboration through her evolving creative relationship with her daughter.

In her interim leadership role, Kessel will focus on advancing the Kennedy Museum of Art’s exhibitions and programming while strengthening its impact as a cultural resource for the campus, region and broader community. 

“Courtney steps into this role with a deep commitment to our college and to the museum’s mission of fostering artistic discovery, dialogue and access,” Roxanne Schroeder-Arce, dean of the Chaddock + Morrow College of Fine Arts, said. “Courtney has served the college in a variety of capacities during her time at Ohio University, and her strong background as both an artist and advocate positions her well to lead during this transitional period.”

Kessel will take over the role from Sandra Harris, who will depart the Kennedy Museum of Art in June after being director for three years. Harris played a key role in expanding museum programming, strengthening community partnerships and increasing visitor engagement. She also contributed significantly to student success, overseeing more than 30 student staff members and providing leadership for the Museum Studies Certificate program, creating meaningful experiential learning opportunities across the University.

"It has been my privilege to be part of the Kennedy Museum of Art and the Museum Studies Certificate program these past two years,” Harris said. “What KMA has accomplished with partners, faculty, students, staff, volunteers and the public for 30 years is remarkable. Its admirable designation as an accredited museum by the American Alliance of Museums is an achievement only 3% of U.S. museums ever achieve. OU is fortunate to have such an important collection, and the ongoing dedication of those who support the research and experiential learning museums provide academically, professionally and personally. I hope 

KMA and Museum Studies will flourish and fully reach their untapped potential in the future." 

In addition to Kessel’s leadership, Mateo Galvano has also recently joined the Kennedy Museum of Art as head of Learning and Engagement, alongside longtime staff members Lori Spencer and Lisa Quinn. Together, the newly assembled team will lead the museum into its next chapter, building upon the institution’s enduring legacy.

The Dean’s Office is currently working with University leadership on a national search for a full-time director which is expected to begin this fall.