Janzen honored for dedication to Mulvane

Leia Karimul Bashar

Scores of people attended a reception Monday afternoon to thank Reinhild Janzen for her time as interim director of the Mulvane Art Museum.

The reception, organized by the Washburn Women’s Board, took place from 3 to 5 p.m. in the foyer of the Mulvane. Many of Janzen’s friends and colleagues were in attendance. The atmosphere was friendly but, understandably, somewhat somber. People had nothing but good things to say about Janzen’s work for the museum, and it was clear that her leadership was going to be missed.

“Reinhild has been with the museum for almost a year and a half as interim director of the Mulvane,” said Carol Emert, Mulvane curator. “The permanent director arrives soon, so this reception is kind of a way to thank her for her time.”

Emert said Janzen will continue working at Washburn as a professor of art history.

Trella Anderson, a member of the Washburn Women’s Board, had wonderful things to say about Janzen’s leadership abilities during her time as interim director, saying Janzen engendered a positive atmosphere at the Mulvane.

“We’ve really been fortunate to have someone of her quality and caliber,” said Anderson. “She has done so much for the Mulvane, providing warmth and communication among staff and volunteers. She made it easy for all of us to work together.”

Cindi Morrison will replace Janzen as full-time director at the Mulvane. Morrison, who hails from Lancaster, Penn., was the executive director of Lancaster Museum of Art for more than 10 years so she already has a lot of experience under her belt. Morrison will arrive at Washburn in mid-May.