Museum lures Bowen to Milwaukee

NEW PALTZ — State University of New York at New Paltz President Roger Bowen announced today that he has accepted an offer to be the president of the Milwaukee Public Museum.

The 119-year-old museum specializes in human and natural history, and interprets the world’s cultural and natural heritage through collections, research, education and exhibits. Bowen will oversee the overall operations of the museum, which includes 6.2 million artifacts and specimens, a research team of 40 scientists and historians, and management of the Tirimbina Rain Forest in Costa Rica.

“I am truly and profoundly attracted to this very different sort of educational responsibility and challenge at this stage of my life and career,” said Bowen. “Coincidentally, the museum already has a New Paltz connection. Dr. Allen Young, a 1964 graduate, is the museum’s vice president for collections, research and public programming.”

Bowen will leave New Paltz with a five-year track record that includes dramatic improvements in retention, selectivity, international education, fundraising and campus beautification.

With Bowen’s departure, SUNY Chancellor Robert King has designated New Paltz Provost David Lavallee as the university’s officer-in-charge with presidential authority, pending arrangements for an interim president and a search for Bowen’s successor.

Bowen will begin his presidency at the Milwaukee Public Museum on Oct. 1.

Additional information about the Milwaukee Public Museum is available online at www.mpm.edu.