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Professional Bio
Ruth Ann Rugg is an established museum professional with four decades of leadership and experience. She served the Texas Association of Museums (TAM) for 14 years, as Executive Director (2008-2016) then as Director of Special Projects (2016-2022). In addition, she was founding director of COSMA, the Coalition of State Museum Associations (2017-2022). Though recently retired (December 2022), Ruth Ann is well-versed in the challenges facing both museums and museum associations today.
A native Texan and resident of Fort Worth, Ruth Ann received her education at Texas Christian University. Her museum career includes posts at the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, where she worked in the 1980s; the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Fort Worth, where she worked in the 1990s; and The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Dallas, where she worked in the 2000s.
Ruth Ann is an advocate for collaboration and productive partnerships within the cultural heritage and museum community. Twice in her career she has played a leadership role in establishing and strengthening new nonprofits, utilizing her expertise in organizational dynamics and consensus building.
On a personal level, Ruth Ann is proud of her three adult children and three grandchildren. She and Jerry Rugg, her husband of 45 years, enjoy time with their extended family at their second home in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.
A native Texan and resident of Fort Worth, Ruth Ann received her education at Texas Christian University. Her museum career includes posts at the Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, where she worked in the 1980s; the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Fort Worth, where she worked in the 1990s; and The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Dallas, where she worked in the 2000s.
Ruth Ann is an advocate for collaboration and productive partnerships within the cultural heritage and museum community. Twice in her career she has played a leadership role in establishing and strengthening new nonprofits, utilizing her expertise in organizational dynamics and consensus building.
On a personal level, Ruth Ann is proud of her three adult children and three grandchildren. She and Jerry Rugg, her husband of 45 years, enjoy time with their extended family at their second home in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.
Leadership Role
2021 AM Speaker