Remembering Susan Parke (1941 - 2023)
Susan Parke served as MoNA's Executive Director from 1990 to 2007, beginning her tenure while the Museum was still in La Conner's Gaches Mansion. Susan was instrumental in both the acquisition and subsequent move to the current location on First Street. During her time at MoNA, she provided outstanding leadership and was instrumental in expanding the Museum's collection, programming, and community outreach initiatives. Susan provided a strong foundation throughout the seventeen years of her leadership, and MoNA has built upon this foundation. Both during her tenure as Executive Director and after her retirement, she curated many exhibitions showcasing the work of regional artists and established MoNA as a respected museum in the Pacific Northwest. In addition to her transformative role at the Museum, Susan's knowledge, passion, and guidance led the arts in this region to higher levels. She will always be remembered and celebrated as an outstanding arts advocate, a passionate curator and leader. Susan's contributions to the Northwest art scene have been far-reaching for over three decades. Her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the Northwest arts community for years to come.
At her request, MoNA is receiving generous donations in her memory to support the Museum's education programs, exhibitions, and care of the Permanent Collection.
The Museum thanks everyone whose honored Susan's memory with a gift.
An online tribute to her can be found at: