The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) has selected Lourdes Ramos, PhD as President and CEO, following an international executive search process led by Arts Consulting Group (ACG). Beginning her tenure on May 1, 2017, she will be the first Latina to hold this position in the museum’s 20-year history.
A native of Puerto Rico, Dr. Ramos has led the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico in San Juan, one of the largest and most prominent Latin American cultural institutions. As Executive Director and Chief Curator for the past 12 years, she managed both the museum’s financials and curatorial program, helping organize exhibitions, including shows devoted to Puerto Rican impressionist Francisco Oller and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Prior to her tenure at the Museo de Arte, she was the Director of the San Juan City Museum and the National Collection of Puerto Rico at the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture. She holds a bachelor of arts in fine arts from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, a master of fine arts from Illinois State University, and a doctor of philosophy in fine arts with a concentration in arts administration from the University of Barcelona in Spain. Dr. Ramos is also an accreditation commissioner for the American Alliance of Museums, has participated in the Museum Leadership Program hosted by the Getty Leadership Institute, and is a certified fine art appraiser (USPAP).
In making the announcement, Board of Directors Co-Chair Robert Braun said, “We are so excited to see someone of Dr. Ramos’ caliber take the reins at MOLAA. She is strategic, forward-thinking, and has an excellent track record of museum leadership. Her ability to organize projects on a global scale and attract new audiences and support through innovative, collection-based programs will enable MOLAA to strengthen its artistic direction and create a solid infrastructure for its continued growth.”
“When we refer to the most exalted institutions of Latin and Latin American art, MOLAA is a mandatory reference,” said Dr. Ramos. “As a professional, to be able to contribute to and expand upon the artistic legacy and the vision of MOLAA, in a framework of strategic development, is a great responsibility. Nevertheless, it is a shared responsibility with all those visionaries who see the arts as the pinnacle of human expression and a unifying force that celebrates diversity and inclusion without regard to borders.”
“Congratulations to the Museum of Latin American Art on its appointment of Dr. Lourdes Ramos as President and CEO,” said ACG President Dr. Bruce D. Thibodeau. “Dr. Ramos brings a wealth of experience in the museum industry with a deep understanding of Latin American art and culture. Her passion, dedication, and perspective will reinvigorate the museum’s international visibility and enhance its diverse programming.”
April 2017