Region 2 At Large Commissioner 

Meet Your Commissioner 

How have the arts impacted you? 

The arts are a part of me. I have been exposed to the arts as long as I can remember. I grew up in a home of musicians who played all genres. My grandmother and mother taught piano and organ. I remember attending a concert featuring Van Cliburn. 

How have you seen the arts impact Virginians? 

Visual and performing arts are important to Virginia’s communities. Some locales have stronger programs than others. There is an appreciation for the arts statewide. 

What might someone be surprised to know about you? 

I used to be extremely shy and quiet. Participating in my high school and college choir helped me to come out of my shell. Also, the theater department at Virginia Wesleyan gave me the confidence that I needed. 

If you could be a world class artist, what would you be/do? 

I would love to play the cello or harp and/or sing opera. 

If you had to say what your superpower was, what might that be? 

Listening! Observing and supporting. 

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Dr. Thaxton-Ward has served in several capacities at the Hampton University Museum for over 25 years. Returning to Hampton in 1991, she became the director in 2015. Thaxton-Ward was previously employed as the Director of the York Bailey Museum at historic Penn Center on St. Helena Island, South Carolina. As director of the Hampton University Museum her responsibilities are many. Dr. Thaxton-Ward is also the publisher of the International Review of African American Art. She has served on several boards and is active in the community. Dr. Thaxton-Ward obtained her Ph.D. in American Studies with a concentration in African American Material Culture from the College of William and Mary.