BENTONVILLE, ARK.- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has recently hired two new staff members: Emily Ironside is the museum’s new membership program manager, and Bill Lyle joins the museum as executive chef of Eleven, the museum restaurant. Both are from Fayetteville.

Emily Ironside joined Crystal Bridges’ Advancement Team on August 1 as the membership program manager. No stranger to the arts in Northwest Arkansas, Ironside comes to Crystal Bridges from Walton Arts Center, where she served as the annual giving manager for two years. She also worked previously at the University of Arkansas, Walmart, and YMCA. She holds a master’s degree in communication from the University of Arkansas, and serves on the boards of NWA Mercy Family YMCA, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and Life Styles Inc. as a member of the Art Advisory Council. At Crystal Bridges, Ironside will oversee all aspects of the museum’s membership program, including recruitment and member services.

“It’s certain that the museum’s membership program will continue to thrive under Emily’s capable leadership,” said Jill Wagar, Director of Advancement. “Her graceful ability to strategically engage individuals at Crystal Bridges will enrich members’ experiences.”

Bill Lyle has joined Crystal Bridges as the new executive chef of Eleven, the museum restaurant. Chef Lyle has been part of the Northwest Arkansas food community in Fayetteville for several years, not only through his work as executive chef at Ella’s Restaurant on the campus of the University of Arkansas, but also through hosting the annual Winemaker’s Dinner at Walton Arts Center’s Art of Wine Festival, and previously serving as sous chef at Bordino’s restaurant in downtown Fayetteville.

“Chef Lyle’s dynamic, yet accessible style of cuisine promises to be a perfect fit for Eleven’s mantra of modern American comfort food,” said Crystal Bridges’ Director of Culinary Services Case Dighero.