Feature News

A New Beginning at the Prince George’s African American Museum & Cultural Center

Chanel Compton appointed PGAAMCC’s new Executive Director

The Prince George’s African American Museum & Cultural Center (PGAAMCC) appointed a new Executive Director, Chanel Compton.  As a long-time friend and dedicated colleague of PGAAMCC Ms. Compton returns to us from the Creative Alliance in Baltimore, where she was Education Director,  which involved directing instructors and staff to implement city-wide arts programs.  “We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect candidate!  Not only does she have a Masters in Arts Management from American University with extensive academic training in non-profit management, but she has a true talent for fostering strong community partnerships and support.  We have full confidence that Ms. Compton will lead this institution to new heights, bringing in new and diverse audiences in celebration of Prince George’s African American history, art, and culture” states PGAAMCC Board President, William Q. O. Shelton, Sr.  She previously served as PGAAMCC’s Education Director.   In her past work with PGAAMCC, Ms. Compton developed several signature school-based programs that received local and international acclaim; including Culture Keepers, Early Keepers, and Museum-In-A-Box.  Addressing the need for culturally relevant experiences in schools and communities, these programs garnered a 2-year partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools, annually serving more than 2,000 students and over 40 schools throughout the County. 

Ms. Compton grew up in Bridgeport, CT, and has had a love for museums and the arts since childhood, stating, “In high school, my art teacher would take the class on field trips to museums and galleries; these trips were really special to me because there were absolutely no art museums or galleries near my neighborhood.  During a field trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, I was introduced to the work of Leonardo Drew, a renowned African American artist who actually graduated from my high school.  I was very proud that an artist from my local community was featured at such a prestigious museum; showcasing artwork that enhanced me and my classmates’ knowledge of Black history.  For me, that experience illustrates that a museum can be a powerful place of learning and inspiration.   Institutions such as museums can be places that inspire a new generation of leaders and innovators; a place of unity and connection, a place of learning, and a place of individual and collective transformation.”

The Prince George’s African American Museum & Cultural Center’s mission is to celebrate and inspire the community through the cultivation, preservation, and presentation of the cultural and artistic contributions of African Americans in Prince George’s County, Maryland.  Ms. Compton believes, “We encourage our audiences to delve deeper into how they approach the Black experience, especially on a local level.”  Through exhibitions and programs, PGAAMCC shares the County’s untold stories of African Americans—starting with legacies that began with ancestors from the continent of Africa; from pre-enslavement to enslavement to emancipation; the formation of Black townships and communities; and the great thinkers of today that continue to pave the way in the arts, human rights, and innovation.  To learn more about our programs, visit www.pgaamcc.org.  Stop by to enjoy our Culture Keepers, Youth Exhibition celebrating Black Innovation, on June 2, 7pm-9pm.  4519 Rhode Island Avenue, North Brentwood, MD  20722

by webpgaamccadmin