Museum names Shirley as first woman president, CEO
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s board of directors has appointed Natalie Shirley, the president of Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, as the museum’s new president and CEO.
Shirley’s appointment is effective Jan. 15, according to a news release.
“The board of directors is delighted that Natalie Shirley will lead the museum into its next stage of growth for years to come,” the museum’s chairman of the board, Lynn Friess, said Tuesday in a statement. “As a native Oklahoman with strong community ties and a storied history of prominent leadership roles, Natalie was a clear choice when selecting the most qualified candidate for the position.”
Shirley will be the first woman named president and CEO for the museum, which was founded in 1955. She will lead more than 125 staff and 200 volunteers to continue preserving and interpreting the evolving history and cultures of the American West for the education and enrichment of the museum’s diverse audiences.
“The opportunity to serve as president and CEO of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is one that truly embodies everything I stand for,” Shirley said in a statement. “For me, this role is about engaging our community and sharing the story and values of the American West with the world. The museum is a place for all generations to learn, explore, and gain a deeper understanding of our Western heritage.”
Shirley’s prior experience includes concurrently serving as the OSU-OKC president and as the Oklahoma secretary of education and workforce development. In 2007-2011, Shirley served in Gov. Brad Henry’s cabinet as Oklahoma secretary of commerce and tourism. During that time, she also served as the executive director of the Commerce Department.
She will succeed Steven M. Karr, who stepped down in February.