Figge education boss now interim CEO

Jonathan Turner
·2 min read
Figge education boss now interim CEO

Melissa Mohr is the Figge Art Museum’s interim executive director, as the institution undertakes a nationwide search for a new chief executive.

Figge executive director Michelle Hargrave is leaving her position, effective April 17, 2024. Head of the Davenport art museum since 2019, Hargrave will take on the role of executive director of the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts in Michigan.

Michelle Hargrave, executive director of the Figge Art Museum, Davenport, will step down April 17, 2024.
Michelle Hargrave, executive director of the Figge Art Museum, Davenport, will step down April 17, 2024.

A native Michigander, she received an undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan and also holds a master’s of art from The Bard Graduate Center: Decorative Arts, Design, and Material Culture.

A 2004 Knox College alum, Mohr has been an integral part of the Figge for nearly 15 years, serving as the museum’s director of education. Holding an M.A. in art history from the University of Iowa, she brings to this role a rich background in art history, complemented by her distinguished leadership achievements, the Figge said in a recent announcement.

“As a Museum Leadership Institute NextGen Fellow and a recurrent speaker at conferences hosted by prestigious organizations like the American Alliance of Museums, her thought leadership and expertise are widely acknowledged in the museum sector and by the Quad Cities community,” the Figge said.

Melissa Mohr has been the museum’s education director since 2012.
Melissa Mohr has been the museum’s education director since 2012.

Aleeza Singh, the museum board president, has expressed full confidence in Mohr’s appointment, stating, “Melissa embodies the spirit and dedication that the Figge Art Museum stands for. Her comprehensive understanding of our operations, vision, and community makes her the ideal leader for this interim period.”

Upon accepting this role, Mohr shared her enthusiasm and commitment to the museum’s mission.

“It is a profound honor to assume the role of interim executive director at the Figge Art Museum,” she said. “It is my utmost priority to ensure that we continue the incredible work of preserving the momentum we’ve built, while also maintaining our community engagement and thriving during this transitional period.”

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