Emily Wilkinson, Ph.D., started as museum director in January of 2026.

Prior to her current role, Dr. Wilkinson has served as Executive Director of Public Art for the Texas Tech University System and the Helen DeVitt Jones Endowed Manager of Education for the National Ranching Heritage Center. She has also worked as a museum educator for the Lubbock Lake Landmark, Museum at Texas Tech University, and the Science Spectrum.

Dr. Wilkinson holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education from Texas Tech University. Her study focused on undergraduate student perceptions of how campus public art can create a sense of belonging. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Museum Science from Texas Tech University.

She currently serves as a board member for the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA) and the Science Spectrum, as well as the Vice President for Programs on the Texas Association of Museums’ Board of Directors. She also serves as a member of the Dean’s Council for the Texas Tech College of Education. She is a 2015 recipient of Lubbock’s Top 20 Under 40 and 2023 recipient of YWCA of Lubbock’s Women of Excellence award.