Judi Dutcher, President and Director,
The Museum of Russian Art
TMORA Announces
Judi H. Dutcher as
New Director and President
MINNEAPOLIS (May 9, 2007) – The Museum of Russian Art (TMORA) today announced that Judi Dutcher will serve as its new president and director. Dutcher brings to TMORA more than 20 years experience in the private, public and non-profit sectors. In her new role, Dutcher will utilize this experience to build community support for TMORA as one of the Twin Cities' most unique cultural resources.
"We are excited to welcome such an accomplished, innovative leader to The Museum of Russian Art," said Raymond E. Johnson, chair of the Museum's Board of Trustees. "Judi has a proven track record as a strategic leader of a non-profit and a skilled fundraiser. She is energetic and innovative. We look forward to working with Judi as TMORA more firmly establishes its reputation as an important asset to the Twin Cities community, and an increasingly prominent member of the international network of museum institutions."
Until August 2006, Dutcher, 44, was president of the Minnesota Community Foundation where she led the foundation's fundraising efforts, more than doubling its assets in just three years. In addition, she started the foundation's first statewide grantmaking program, and led strategic and educational outreach initiatives.
"This museum is an incredible community treasure, and I am honored to serve as its new president," said Dutcher. "I look forward to using my knowledge and experience to advance the Museum's mission, including increased community education and awareness of Russian history and artistic achievements."
From 1994 to 2002, Dutcher was Minnesota State Auditor. She also served on the State Board of Investment, State Executive Council, Land Exchange Board, Rural Finance Authority Board, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Board and the Public Employees Retirement Association Board. Previously, Dutcher worked as an attorney with the firm of Lang, Pauly & Gregerson, and was a Minneapolis city attorney.
Dutcher received her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Minnesota. She is active in several Twin Cities organizations and serves on the board of the University of Minnesota Foundation and the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs, Center for the Study of Politics and Governance Advisory Board.
She succeeds Bradford Shinkle IV, who has served as TMORA's president and director since its initial founding in 2002. Shinkle will remain with TMORA as director of scholarship, with continuing responsibilities for the development of research initiatives and creating relationships with international art historians.
"The Museum will greatly benefit from Judi's leadership skills and experience in financial management, organizational governance and community relationship building," said Shinkle. "The Museum's exhibition activities have grown in both number and complexity. I look forward to working with Judi as she helps lead TMORA to become one of the world's premier Russian art education and exhibition venues."
About The Museum of Russian Art
The Museum of Russian Art, a non-profit, educational institution, is the only museum in the United States dedicated solely to the preservation and presentation of 20th century Russian art and artifacts. Established in 2002 by Raymond and Susan Johnson, TMORA is located in an award-winning exhibition facility at 5500 Stevens Ave. S. (intersection of I-35W and Diamond Lake Road) in Minneapolis. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday-Wednesday, Friday), 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Thursday), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Saturday); closed Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults. To learn more about the Museum, upcoming exhibitions and events, to view selections from the Museum store, or to schedule an event at the Museum, call 612-821-9045 or visit www.tmora.org.
NOTE TO MEDIA: For additional information or images, contact Renee Kelly at 612-372-6450.