The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art has a new Executive Director.

Dr. Brett Knappe started his first day of work Monday at the museum.  Knappe has been living in the Midwest since 1998.

“I was previously a professor of Art History at Baker University,” Knappe said.

He replaces Terry Oldham who retired as the museum’s Ex. Dir.

“He was at the Albrecht-Kemper for 16-years.  Did a lot of wonderful things for this museum and this community and it’s really my honor to take over after him and he’s already serving as a great mentor for me,” Knappe said.

He’s just getting his foot in the door but Knappe said he hopes to try to get everyone in the community through the museum doors for one reason or another at least once a year.

“I would like to create connections with everyone.  My ultimate goal would be that everyone in St. Joe would come through our doors at least once a year,” Knappe said. “Get to know us, get to know our collections, get to see the local artists that we show, get to see the work in our vault that comes out now and then.”

He said he and his wife Dr. Stephanie Knappe who is a curator at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and their 5-year-old daughter are moving to St. Joseph from Douglas County, Kan.  He said his parents have already bought a house in St. Joseph and have moved in.  Knappe said he knows how important it is to get to know the community.

“This is a community that is growing, it’s doing a lot of interesting things, getting to know the people is the primary aspect of this job I’m looking forward to,” Knappe said. “Please stop by and if you stop by ask to meet me.”