We are pleased to announce that the Samek Art Gallery is now the Samek Art Museum. We are rolling out our new name and logo first via our online presence here on the blog, on Facebook, and on Twitter. This will be followed by updates to signage around campus and town over the course of the semester. However, this change is about more than just a new name–after all, what’s in a name?
A museum is not defined by the building that houses it so much as the activities that take place within that building. The American Alliance of Museums and the International Council of Museums define a museum as an organization that exists to enrich the public through ongoing exhibitions and educational programs and that preserves a permanent collection of cultural artifacts. “The Samek” has long functioned as a museum, and now we take the name to re-dedicate ourselves to this core mission, to engage audiences with our collection in new ways, and to inspire you with a richer offering of public programs. Take a moment this spring to visit your new neighbor and old friend, the Samek Art Museum.
– Richard Rinehart, Director