McAllen, TX — International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) Executive Director, Ann Fortescue, will be joining the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. during the 250th. She has been selected as a panelist in “For the Common Good: Smithsonian Voices on Our Shared Future 250” hosted by the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
Ann Fortescue joined the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) in 2019 and has over 42 years of practice in museums. Connecting museums with their communities has been at the forefront of her work, and she enthusiastically builds teams that focus on making the museum a place for everyone. Ann brings a range of service to the field including as an American Alliance of Museums Accreditation Commissioner from 2015-2018, and Museum Assessment Program peer reviewer since 2005. She is the immediate Past President of the Texas Association of Museums and was recognized by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce as a 2025 Legendary Woman.
To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the ratification of the Declaration of Independence, the Smithsonian is taking its oldest and largest public program—the annual Folklife Festival—on the road to communities across the country and to U.S. territories. “Of the People: The Smithsonian Festival of Festivals” illuminates how festivals serve as enduring tools for community engagement and cultural exchange.
In June and July, the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage will also present a slate of spotlight programs in Washington, D.C. At the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall, visitors can explore the Folklife Marketplace, featuring handcrafted items from American artisans and an exhibit of objects and stories from past Folklife Festivals. The building will also host “For the Common Good: Smithsonian Voices on Our Shared Future 250,” a series of conversations with Smithsonian staff, community partners and thought leaders.
“Smithsonian Affiliations: What’s in Your Neighborhood?” will share firsthand how the Smithsonian engages with Affiliate organizations from two museum leaders. Session moderator Kara Blond, director of the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition Service | Smithsonian Affiliations, will be in conversation with Andy Masich, president and CEO of the Senator John Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Ann Fortescue, Executive Director of the International Museum of Art & Science in McAllen, Texas, to offer an insider’s look at the Smithsonian’s national outreach and partnerships.
Ann Fortescue, IMAS Executive Director, has been selected as a panelist in “For the Common Good: Smithsonian Voices on Our Shared Future 250” hosted by the Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
About the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) inspires visitors of all ages to explore the world of art and science. Through its diverse exhibitions, collections, and educational programs, IMAS empowers learners to pursue their passions and discover new interests. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen, Texas. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information on admission, events, and programs, visit theimasonline.org or call (956) 681-2800.
About the Smithsonian
Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery. It is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, libraries and gardens. Two of the 21 museums—the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum—are in the early planning stages. The total number of objects, works of art and specimens at the Smithsonian is about 157 million. To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the Smithsonian is hosting a full slate of special exhibitions, festivals and public events, including the completion of the National Air and Space Museum’s renovation, which opened to the public 50 years ago for the nation’s bicentennial.
Smithsonian Affiliations collaborates with a network of museums and cultural organizations across the country to create experiences that educate and inspire. Millions of people have experienced the Smithsonian in their neighborhoods through educational programs, inspiring exhibitions, and diverse collections. With more than 200 Smithsonian Affiliates in 48 states, Puerto Rico, and Panama, these partnerships bring the Smithsonian to communities nationwide.
