Jan Morrison Named Board President

Jun 18

The Board of Directors of the Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals has elected Jan Morrison as its new Board President, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for one of the Pacific Northwest’s most distinctive cultural institutions. Morrison was selected by fellow board members to lead the organization as it advances an ambitious strategic vision focused on growth, accessibility, community engagement, and educational impact, and she had the following to say:

“I am honored to have been selected by my fellow board members to serve as President of the Board of Directors for the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals. I accept this responsibility with deep gratitude and a strong commitment to advancing the Museum’s 30-year mission, vision, and long-term success.

The confidence my colleagues have placed in me is especially meaningful. This appointment reflects not simply a transition in leadership, but a shared belief in the Museum’s future and in the work we are undertaking together. I am eager to devote my time, energy, and creativity to helping guide the Rice through its next chapter.

While I will serve as Board President, our success depends on the collective talents of our Board, staff, volunteers, and supporters. I am fortunate to work alongside an exceptional group of leaders and experts who bring passion, experience, and dedication to every aspect of the Museum’s work. Together with Executive Director Kimberly Vagner, I look forward to advancing the strategic priorities that will strengthen and grow the Rice for generations to come.

Museums across the country face significant challenges, but the Rice is uniquely positioned to thrive. Our Board recently completed a comprehensive strategic planning process that has given us a clear roadmap for the future. We are committed to remaining agile, mission-focused, and solutions-oriented—evaluating opportunities thoughtfully, addressing challenges proactively, and working collaboratively to achieve meaningful results.

That momentum is already evident. Since completing our strategic planning process, we have:

• Expanded and improved our picnic area, including ADA accessibility enhancements.

• Repaved the Museum’s entry road and portions of the parking area.

• Updated furnishings and gallery entryway casework to enhance the visitor experience.

• Advanced accessibility improvements throughout the Museum.

• Acquired an extraordinary collection of matched cut and rough lapidary works by renowned mineral artist Fred Wilda.

• Launched a Board matching-fund campaign that has already reached 65% of its fundraising goal.

• Developed new donor recognition and naming opportunities that provide meaningful ways to support the Museum’s future.

• Continued exploring innovative approaches to showcasing our collections, strengthening community connections, and advancing STEAM education.

The Rice has long been described as a ‘hidden gem.’ My goal is to ensure that more people discover what makes this institution extraordinary. We are committed to elevating the Museum’s profile, celebrating its remarkable history, and sharing a bold vision for its future. At the same time, we are pursuing strategic organizational and infrastructure improvements that will build upon the legacy established by the Rice family and the generations of Board and staff leadership that have followed.

I am also honored to follow Gail Spann, whose seven years of exemplary service as Board President helped position the Museum for continued growth and success. Her leadership has left an enduring impact, and I look forward to building upon that foundation. We are thankful that Gail will continue with us as our Vice President, and chair of both our Collections Committee, and of our 30th Anniversary Celebration Committee.

The Rice Northwest Museum is a world-class institution, and our Board is committed to ensuring it receives the recognition it deserves. We invite everyone to visit us in Hillsboro, Oregon, experience our extraordinary collections, and discover why the Rice belongs on every museum enthusiast’s must-see list. We hope visitors leave inspired not only by what they see, but by the opportunity to help ensure the Museum continues to thrive for generations to come.”

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Jan has held many leadership roles during her career, and currently serves as the executive director of the New England Mineral Association. She lives in Poland, Maine with her husband, Jeff, and their two Boston Terriers. Along with other members of the Rice NW Museum’s Board, her bio can be found here.