New Position Leads Strategies Connecting Art to Civic Life

Kansas City, MO. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City has hired Kreshaun McKinney in the newly created position of Director, Civic Engagement and Community Programs, a leadership role that will build partnerships and deepen relationships that foster belonging and wellbeing. McKinney, currently Director of Learning and Engagement at Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, previously worked in the Learning & Engagement division at the Nelson-Atkins.

“We are delighted to welcome Kreshaun back,” said Julián Zugazagoitia, Director & CEO of the Nelson-Atkins. “Her enormous energy and deep commitment will inspire new connections and relationships with more communities in Kansas City, as she will play a key role in advancing the museum’s mission at this pivotal moment of growth and transformation.”

During McKinney’s 16 years at the Nelson-Atkins, she rose from teaching full-time studio programs in the Ford Learning Center to becoming the manager of audience engagement. She developed multiple public programs, including award-winning partnerships that greatly increased the cultural diversity of the museum’s guests and expanded program participation.

“It has been an honor to lead this dynamic department at the Kemper for the past five years,” said McKinney. “Now, I am thrilled to return to the Nelson-Atkins as a community connector. My new role aligns with my mission and sustained commitments to Kansas City, arts advocacy, and community collaboration. I look forward to the opportunity to cultivate meaningful partnerships and inclusive programming with new colleagues and partners, a phenomenal education team, and longtime collaborators at the Nelson-Atkins.”

McKinney began working at the Kemper in 2021, where she skillfully created a robust roster of public programs, championing collaboration, creative freedom, and active listening. She spearheaded the Public Engagement committee, fostering deep community relationships.

“Kreshaun is an enthusiastic and innovative arts and cultural leader in Kansas City,” said Anne Manning, Deputy Director, Learning and Engagement. “Her passion for cultivating curiosity, empathy, and connections will ensure the museum truly is a place for all.”

During COVID, under McKinney’s direction, the museum’s docent program was restructured, revitalized, and recruited to broaden volunteer opportunities and interests, along with expanding docents’ cultural competencies and awareness through related trainings, resulting in a dedicated roster of 50 volunteers.

In her new position, McKinney will lead the development and implementation of a museum-wide strategy for civic engagement and community partnerships aligned with the Nelson-Atkins’ mission and strategic plan, including the creative aging programs. She will also provide oversight and direction for a diverse portfolio of programs—including late-night events, exhibition-related initiatives, and wellbeing programming—ensuring quality, relevance, and alignment with institutional goals.

McKinney, an artist herself and a member of the African American Artists Collective, begins her new position March 4.

Photo credit: Graham Carroll