Wexner Center Hires New Director of Patron Services

The Wexner Center for the Arts has hired Michele Burke Mooney as its new Director of Patron Services, effective January 16. A veteran marketing, community relations, and event planning professional in Columbus in both the nonprofit and corporate realms, Mooney joins the center’s senior staff and will work cross-departmentally to develop audiences and enhance the visitor experience. She will oversee operations for all direct points of contact with center patrons, including the ticket office, the usher corps, the Wexner Center Store, and Cam’s on Campus (the café).

Mooney most recently served as marketing director and community liaison with Whole Foods Market, and prior to that as director of marketing for five years for the North Market Development Authority, where she was responsible for communications and advertising, special events, and the volunteer program. She has also worked for the Greater Columbus Arts Council as the marketing specialist; at Cameron Mitchell Restaurants as director of sales and marketing; and at the New Albany Country Club as events and communications director.

Notes Wexner Center Deputy Director Jack Jackson, “With her background in the arts, retail, event planning, community relations, and visitor services, Michele will bring new expertise and energy to the table. We look forward to having her here to help us guide the center as it focuses ever more on audience development and creating a positive visitor experience.”

Originally from Pittsburgh, Mooney has a B.S. from Ohio University’s E.W. Scripps School of Journalism and has lived in Columbus 14 years.

Mooney replaces Natalie Hirniak, who left the Wexner Center in November.