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Connie McAllister
Director of Marketing and Communications at The Walters Art Museum
Professional Background
Connie McAllister is a highly accomplished marketing professional with a robust portfolio of experience in the arts sector. Currently, she serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications at The Walters Art Museum, where she is responsible for developing and implementing innovative marketing strategies that enhance the museum's visibility and engagement within the community. Her extensive experience in this role includes creating comprehensive communication plans, leading branding efforts, and fostering partnerships that promote arts and culture.
Before joining The Walters Art Museum, Connie played a pivotal role at the Moody Center for the Arts at Rice University as the Director of Marketing and Communications. Here, she was instrumental in launching the center's marketing initiatives, effectively positioning the center as a leading hub for contemporary art and education in the Houston area. Her strategic vision and implementation of outreach programs significantly increased attendance and community involvement.
Connie’s career also includes significant contributions to the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. Starting as the Marketing Manager, she quickly advanced to hold various key positions, including Director of External Affairs and Director of Community Engagement. In these roles, she successfully developed campaigns that resonated with diverse audiences, strengthened community relations, and enhanced public affinity for the museum's contemporary art exhibits.
Her dedication to community-oriented programming and engagement is further exemplified by her earlier role as Assistant to the Director at Artpace San Antonio, where she honed her skills in managing arts programs and communicating their value to the public.
Education and Achievements
Connie McAllister earned her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing from The Red McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin. Her academic foundation provided her with the tools necessary to excel in marketing and communications, particularly within the vibrant domain of the arts. This educational background, combined with her hands-on experience, has equipped her with a unique perspective on how to effectively promote artistic endeavors and engage with audiences meaningfully.
Throughout her career, Connie has been recognized for her commitment to the arts and community outreach. She has cultivated a reputation for her ability to connect with diverse stakeholders, from artists and curators to local businesses and educational institutions. Her expertise in crafting compelling narratives and marketing strategies is a testament to her dedication to advancing the mission of the institutions she has worked with.
Achievements
Connie McAllister’s contributions to the arts community are numerous and impactful. Under her leadership at various organizations, she has transformed marketing strategies to improve audience engagement and public perception. Her innovative approaches have often led to increased visitor numbers, higher membership rates, and stronger community ties.
Moreover, Connie is recognized for her ability to engage with contemporary artists and facilitate collaborations that enhance the cultural fabric of the communities she serves. She has been a driving force in organizing events that not only showcase art but also foster discussions about cultural and social issues, further establishing arts organizations as vital community hubs.
Connie McAllister’s career reflects a deep commitment to making art accessible and relevant to a broad audience. Through her strategic initiatives, she continues to inspire others and elevate the experiences of art lovers and newcomers alike, making significant contributions to the cultural landscape.