Kris Morrissey, PhD

Prior to her appointment as Director in September of 2007, Kris Morrissey was the Curator of Interpretation at the Michigan State University Museum and Director of the MSU Museum Studies Program. She is the editor of the journal Museums & Social Issues published by Left Coast Press, Inc. She has over 20 years experience working in museums and has taught university courses on a range of subjects, including informal learning, interpretation, new technologies, research and evaluation. She is interested in the ways museums engage, educate and listen to individuals, families, communities and society.

Morrissey is also a PI for New Directions Research, Service and Academics in Visitor Studies, a project that will prepare a new generation of evaluators and museum practitioners through an innovative apprentice-styled laboratory that integrates the strengths of mentoring, fieldwork, academics and client-centered experiences. Led by the University of Washington's Museology Program and joined by partners the Woodland Park Zoo and the Learning in Informal and Formal Environments Center (LIFE), New Directions will develop a model of university and community collaboration. Funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services 21st Century Museum Professionals Program.