Bullock Texas State History Museum Names New Director
Dr. Victoria Ramirez to lead the Museum
JUNE 16, 2014 (AUSTIN, TX) - Victoria Ramirez, Ed.D. has been named director of the Bullock Texas State History Museum. The announcement was made by John Sneed, executive director of the State Preservation Board, which operates the museum and maintains and preserves the State Capitol, Governor's Mansion and other Texas landmarks.
Dr. Ramirez began her tenure with the Bullock Museum in February 2013 as deputy director. At that time her responsibilities included education initiatives, the film and theater department, technology-based offerings, and museum operations. Under her leadership, the museum has greatly expanded programming for adults, teachers, and students and increased offerings for families, particularly by enhancing activities and programs on the museum's monthly "Free First Sunday's." She has overseen the strategic planning of the film and theater department and the development and improved training of the visitor services area. In addition, Dr. Ramirez has managed the ongoing integration of technology throughout the museum and is leading the way for an innovative, interactive website that will transform the way in which the museum will tell both the historical and ongoing stories of Texas. The website is part of a statewide initiative that will launch in September 2014 and will feature unique and engaging stories of Texas culture, history and present-day events from Texans throughout the state.
Prior to her association with the Bullock Museum, Dr. Ramirez served as director of education for the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Before joining the Museum of Fine Arts in 1999, she served as curator of education with the Georgia Museum of Art at the University of Georgia.
"Victoria has done an outstanding job as interim director over the past six months," Mr. Sneed said. "She has been instrumental in increasing exhibit revenue by over 40% and increasing school outreach and student visits by more than 30%. As the museum moves into one of its most exciting and challenging periods, Victoria is the right person, at the right time, for this position."
In respect to her new position as director of the museum, Dr. Ramirez stated that "this next venture is an honor and opportunity for me on so many fronts. I am enthusiastic about upholding the tradition of excellence for which the State Preservation Board is known. I find great inspiration from the excellent museum staff, board, and volunteers, all of whom are dedicated to the Bullock and its future."
Brian McLaughlin, president of the Board of Trustees for the Texas State History Museum Foundation, said that "Victoria is poised to move the museum to its next level of stature and into the realms of an exceptional institution. I am thrilled to be working with her in developing the steps and resources to make great thing happen at the Bullock."
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The Bullock Texas State History Museum, a division of the State Preservation Board and an accredited institution of the American Alliance of Museums, creates experiences that educate, engage, and encourage a deeper understanding of Texas. With dynamic, award-winning exhibitions that illuminate Texas history, people, and culture, educational programming for all ages, and an IMAX® theater with a screen the size of Texas, the Museum collaborates with more than 700 museums, libraries, archives, organizations, and individuals across the world to bring the Story of Texas to life. For more information, visit www.TheStoryofTexas.com or call (866)369-7108.
