Ella Sharp Museum Announces New Director of Curatorial Affairs: Elizabeth Palmer
Ella Sharp Museum Announces New Director of Curatorial Affairs: Elizabeth Palmer
Ella Sharp Museum is pleased to welcome Elizabeth Palmer as its new Director of Curatorial Affairs, bringing more than 13 years of experience in collections management, archives, and exhibition development.
Palmer returns to Ella Sharp Museum after previously serving as Curator of Collections, Archives Coordinator, and Manager of Cell Block 7. Most recently, she served as College Archivist at Albion College and has also held positions with the Mann House and Eastern Michigan University Archives. She holds a master’s degree in Historic Preservation with an emphasis in Museum Studies and Interpretation.
As Director of Curatorial Affairs, Palmer oversees the care, documentation, and interpretation of Ella Sharp Museum’s collections while guiding the development of exceptional art history and traveling exhibitions. Passionate about connecting people with art and history, she is committed to creating engaging, meaningful experiences that invite the Jackson community to explore, learn, and discover something new with every visit.
“I am incredibly excited to be back serving Ella Sharp Museum and the Jackson community,” said Palmer. “Museums have a special power of ‘place making’: helping people understand the places they call home while fostering creativity, curiosity, and a sense of belonging. I’m honored to continue Ella Sharp’s legacy by creating experiences that welcome visitors of all ages.”
Palmer says she has long admired Ella Sharp’s vision and legacy, as well as the unique role the Museum plays in preserving local history while presenting meaningful art and cultural experiences.
Ella Sharp Museum Announces New Director of Curatorial Affairs: Elizabeth Palmer
Ella Sharp Museum is pleased to welcome Elizabeth Palmer as its new Director of Curatorial Affairs, bringing more than 13 years of experience in collections management, archives, and exhibition development.
Palmer returns to Ella Sharp Museum after previously serving as Curator of Collections, Archives Coordinator, and Manager of Cell Block 7. Most recently, she served as College Archivist at Albion College and has also held positions with the Mann House and Eastern Michigan University Archives. She holds a master’s degree in Historic Preservation with an emphasis in Museum Studies and Interpretation.
As Director of Curatorial Affairs, Palmer oversees the care, documentation, and interpretation of Ella Sharp Museum’s collections while guiding the development of exceptional art history and traveling exhibitions. Passionate about connecting people with art and history, she is committed to creating engaging, meaningful experiences that invite the Jackson community to explore, learn, and discover something new with every visit.
“I am incredibly excited to be back serving Ella Sharp Museum and the Jackson community,” said Palmer. “Museums have a special power of ‘place making’: helping people understand the places they call home while fostering creativity, curiosity, and a sense of belonging. I’m honored to continue Ella Sharp’s legacy by creating experiences that welcome visitors of all ages.”
Palmer says she has long admired Ella Sharp’s vision and legacy, as well as the unique role the Museum plays in preserving local history while presenting meaningful art and cultural experiences.
- On July 24, 2026
