Dr. Daryl Ward Appointed Executive Director of The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum

Dr. Daryl Ward: New Leadership for The AGB

Florida Southern College is excited to announce that Dr. Daryl Ward has officially been appointed as the executive director of the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, also known as The AGB. His new role begins on March 2, 2026, solidifying his leadership after a successful tenure as interim executive director since June 2025.

Having demonstrated steady guidance during a critical transitional period, Dr. Ward was chosen after a comprehensive national search that considered numerous qualified candidates from across the country. Acknowledging the significant work he has accomplished in the interim, Florida Southern College's president, Dr. Jeremy Martin, expressed confidence in Ward’s vision for the museum's future. "It became clear that we had the right leader in place... someone who understands The AGB, values its mission, and is committed to advancing the arts," he stated.

Dr. Ward brings an impressive background in the arts community, with decades of experience in education, nonprofit leadership, and arts advocacy. He is well-known for his passion for the arts and his effective partnerships aimed at expanding access to cultural resources for local artists and the broader audience in Polk County. In his own words, Dr. Ward expressed, "I'm honored by the trust Florida Southern College has placed in me and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving The AGB. This museum is a place of shared community... to create meaningful, engaging experiences through art, learning, and connection."

The AGB is riding a wave of momentum, especially following last year’s opening of its building expansion and the ongoing exhibit, The Medici Dynasty Renaissance in Florence. As the museum approaches its 60th anniversary, it remains committed to serving both Florida Southern College and the surrounding community. It does this through exhibitions and public programming that fosters lifelong learning and engagement with the arts.

Ward's leadership will be pivotal for the museum, particularly as it expands its role as an academic and cultural resource in Central Florida, especially considering it is the only Smithsonian Affiliate art museum in the region. The AGB's unique position allows it to integrate exhibitions and educational programming into the College's academic framework, enhancing collaboration among faculty and students while also involving the public in various cultural events.

Dr. Tracey Tedder, the vice president for academic affairs at Florida Southern College and chair of the search committee, stated, "Dr. Ward brings extensive leadership experience and a record of academic and professional accomplishment... It is incredibly meaningful to recognize that we have exceptional talent right here in Lakeland."

Ward's extensive credentials include a bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Florida State University, a master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and a Ph.D. from the University of South Florida. A native of Polk County, he dedicated 32 years to Polk County Public Schools, ultimately serving seven years as the principal of Harrison School for the Arts. After retiring in 2020, he took a brief post at Southeastern University before directing the Polk Arts and Cultural Alliance for four years. He is also known as an accomplished photographer and serves as an adjunct professor at Florida Southern College.

Commitment to community engagement plays a significant role in Ward's vision for the museum. While serving as interim director, he led initiatives such as the Ela's Forest project—a memorial that honors a local family affected by domestic violence—and pioneered the FSC Voices Symposium, which aligns Florida Southern faculty's expertise with the museum's exhibitions.

With Dr. Ward stepping into the role of executive director, The AGB expects to enhance its reach and impact within the community, making the arts more accessible to all. The excitement surrounding his appointment signals a promising future for this esteemed institution and its continued dedication to the arts.**