KNOXVILLE, TENN.- The Knoxville Museum of Art announced the appointment of Mary S. Walker as the KMA’s new director of development. Walker joins the KMA staff after holding several key management and strategic positions in Knoxville and Memphis. Walker has served on several local boards including The Episcopal School of Knoxville, The Knoxville Garden Club, Susan G. Komen Knoxville Affiliate, and Bearden United Methodist Church.

“We are delighted to have Mary with us at the KMA to oversee the museum’s fundraising efforts,” said KMA Executive Director David Butler. “She has contributed many years of service to the Knoxville community, understands the local philanthropic landscape, and brings a high degree of professionalism to this important job.”

“I am very excited to take on such a key role in the museum,” said Walker. “My predecessor Susan is leaving the museum in a very good place and I welcome the opportunity to carry on with the traditions and excellent relationships she has established.

Walker graduated with a bachelor of arts from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and has an MBA from the Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University.

Walker takes over for Susan Hyde, who is retiring at the end of March after serving as KMA development director for the past five years.