Fort Worth, TX, March 25, 2002—Amon Carter Museum Director Rick Stewart announced today that Melanie Boyle has been appointed Director of Development and Membership. Boyle has been at the Carter for six years, having joined in 1996 as membership manager. She was promoted to director of membership and events in 2000.

"From the day she joined our staff, Melanie has made significant contributions that have improved the museum's relationship with its audience," says Rick Stewart, Amon Carter Museum director. "She is a top-notch professional and a wonderful person to work with. She understands the museum's mission and has been invaluable to us with regard to reaching out to members of our community. I am delighted to recognize her considerable talents with this promotion."

In her new position, Boyle will provide leadership for the planning, organization, direction, and evaluation of fundraising activities to meet the Carter's annual revenue goals. With an increasingly active exhibition and program schedule, the development challenges facing the museum are multi-faceted. Boyle has a proven track record in meeting and exceeding development goals. As membership manager, she was given the mandate to double the Carter's membership. By the end of February, 2002, that number had more than quadrupled; Carter membership now exceeds 2,400 members.

Boyle will develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan that meets revenue goals and combines museum priorities with potential funding sources among individuals, corporations, foundations and government agencies. She will also continue to oversee the development of the membership program, and will produce sponsorship and grant proposals.

"It is an honor to be working at the Carter Museum at such a momentous time in its history," says Boyle. "The Carter's dedication to excellence, combined with its professional and talented staff, tremendous community support, and beautiful, expanded facility, has created an incredible opportunity for new partnerships enhancing our service to this community. I look forward to playing a role in developing that potential."

Boyle came to the Carter from the Albuquerque Children's Museum, where she served for two years as director of marketing and development. Prior to that she served as development and marketing assistant at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation and worked as a community volunteer with the Junior League of Albuquerque. She holds a B.A. in art history from the University of the South. Boyle is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the American Association of Museums.