EUGENE.- An art museum expert with more than 20 years of experience acquiring major collections, working collaboratively with faculty and students and increasing endowments has been selected as the new executive director at the University of Oregonʹs Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art (JSMA).

Jill Hartz brings extensive museum experience to JSMA, the largest museum between Portland and San Francisco. She assumes her new role in August.

Most recently, Hartz served as the director of the University of Virginia Museum of Art for 10 years. While there, Hartz curated and managed staff in connection with collections and traveling exhibitions in the midst of major facility improvements. Under her guidance, the museum earned national accreditation from the American Association of Museums (AAM) in 1999.

ʺThe University of Oregon is proud to welcome an exceptional museum professional to advance the mission and goals of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and to position it as a model of regional and national significance,ʺ said UO President Dave Frohnmayer. ʺJill Hartzʹs background and extensive experience in university‑based museums will help to realize the potential of this cultural treasure.ʺ

As executive director, Hartz will oversee all aspects of the museumʹs operations including exhibits, educational programs and special events. She will also draw on her expertise in building endowments.

ʺWe’re thrilled to have Jill join the museum at a pivotal time in its history,ʺ said Allan Price, vice president for university advancement. ʺShe has the proven ability to work with many different constituencies, both on‑ and off‑campus, to build community and broaden support and participation in the museum.ʺ

Prior to working at the UVa Art Museum, Hartz served as the exhibitions coordinator and director of public relations and publications at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University.

ʺI am excited about joining the University of Oregon and having the honor of directing the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art,ʺ said Hartz. ʺI look forward to getting to know the campus and the community and everyone committed to the museumʹs strong future. Together we can strengthen its leadership role among university art museums and further broaden the regional and national presence for its innovative and ambitious programs.ʺ

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is set to launch its 75th anniversary celebration in June. The JSMA features approximately 23,000 square feet of exhibition space and is one of six museums in Oregon accredited by the American Association of Museums.

ʺDuring the extensive national search the museum has continued to operate at a high level of excellence due to the efforts of Robert Melnick serving as interim executive director,ʺ said Price. ʺBecause of his leadership, we have a vibrant and lively museum for Jill to guide into its next 75 years.ʺ