Sheldon Swope Art Museum Names Fred J. Nation Executive Director
Fred J. Nation, currently serving as the interim director of the Sheldon Swope Art Museum, has been named executive director by the Board of Managers effective immediately. Nation’s appointment follows the resignation of former executive director, Susan Baley, who accepted a new position in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Kathy Brentlinger, president of the Board of Managers, noted “Fred has always been a strong supporter of the Swope, attending our exhibitions and programs. He is a great ambassador and advocate for our organization. He clearly has a working knowledge of arts and cultural resources and has a great appreciation for the Swope, its collection, and its importance as the keystone of Terre Haute’s cultural community.”
Nation, who lives in Terre Haute, retired from the position of executive vice president of the lndianapolis Motor Speedway in 2012. His wife Nancy has been a longtime Swope board member. Nation described his recent tenure with the museum: “The last six months I have enjoyed my work at the Swope as interim director, and I look forward to assisting moving the museum forward through modernized facility improvements, enhanced protection of the collection, and increased programming venues for our patrons.”
Looking to the future, Brentlinger, on behalf of the Board said, “We are excited to have Fred in this position. His expertise and leadership will provide the museum with the ability to build on years of success. Under his leadership, the Board of Managers anticipates continued growth for the Swope and a focus on much needed facility improvements. His connections in the community and throughout the state provide the opportunity for the Swope to cultivate an ever-growing audience and stakeholders.”
Since his retirement, Nation served for four years as president of the Wabash Valley Community Foundation and vice president of RiverScape. He is on the boards of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, WFYI Public Radio and Television, and the Terre Haute Symphony.
“The Swope is the cornerstone of the vibrant and growing downtown Terre Haute Arts and Culture District,” Nation said of his aspirations for the museum. “l am pleased that Nancy and l can continue to contribute our talents to improving Terre Haute’s quality of place.”
