New Executive Director for Blacksburg Museum

Kate Skelly has accepted the position of Executive Director for the Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation (BMCF). Jim Rakes, President of the Board of Directors, said, “We are excited to have such an accomplished museum professional as Kate. Her experience and leadership will keep BMCF moving forward with innovative programs that capture and present Blacksburg history and culture.”

Skelly has over 15 years of experience working in museum environments. She has developed a broad range of museum programs using traditional and modern technologies and state-of-the-art presentation strategies. Kate will be responsible for programming at both of the BMCF sites – the Alexander Black House on Draper Road and St. Luke and Odd Fellows Hall on Gilbert Street. She has expertise in communicating and promoting museum and cultural events as well as broad experience in fostering community engagement and museum leadership.

“I am so happy to have the opportunity to lead the Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation. Given we have two such diverse venues, there is no limit on the ways we can exhibit and educate. Blacksburg’s history and culture environments are so deep and rich. I am especially enthusiastic to continue the traditions of the BMCF by introducing new lecture series’, exhibitions, oral histories, and historic tours.”

Skelly began work on January 4, 2022. Her office is in the Alexander Black House where the exhibition, “Women of Blacksburg” will open in February.