Washington County Museum of Fine Arts Bolsters Board with Five New Leaders

The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts (WCMFA) has announced the appointment of five new members to its Board of Trustees, significantly enhancing the institution’s leadership with a diverse range of expertise. According to a press release from the museum, these individuals bring valuable experience in business, law, healthcare, tourism, community development, and the arts, poised to support the WCMFA in preserving its heritage and expanding its regional influence. The new trustees are Jason M. Divelbiss, Nick Mohar-Schurz, Thomas B. Riford, Kathleen Su, and Bruce Wilder.

Jason M. Divelbiss brings over 25 years of legal experience, specializing in real estate and land-use law. Licensed to practice in multiple states and before the U.S. Supreme Court, his work has encompassed complex real estate transactions, zoning, financing, and land development for a variety of clients. His extensive legal background and governance experience are expected to be instrumental as the museum manages its historic campus and collections. Nick Mohar-Schurz offers a unique blend of international business acumen and a deep connection to Washington County. After completing his education at institutions including Kenyon College and Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, he engaged in international business and economic development before returning to his home region. Mohar-Schurz is currently leading a project to redevelop a historic church in Williamsport into an inn and restaurant, and he actively contributes to local nonprofits such as the Maryland Symphony Orchestra and the Washington County Historical Society. His background in preservation, revitalization, and community leadership is seen as directly aligning with the WCMFA’s mission.

Thomas B. Riford brings a wealth of experience in tourism, nonprofit management, marketing, and public service, including a recent role as Maryland’s Commerce Assistant Secretary overseeing Tourism, Film, and the Arts. Throughout his career, Riford has been a proponent of Maryland’s cultural institutions and heritage tourism. A decorated Marine Corps veteran and published historian, his broad leadership experience and public engagement skills are anticipated to be a significant asset to the museum. Kathleen Su’s career has been dedicated to healthcare, education, athletics, and community service. She began her nursing career at NYU Medical Center and later managed a medical practice in Hagerstown for fifteen years. Her volunteer leadership includes service with Mercersburg Academy and the Community Action Council, and she currently assists local artist Allie Dattilio in her studio. Su’s passion for the arts and community engagement will contribute to her role on the Board. Bruce Wilder, a lifelong resident of Washington County, has established a notable career as a craftsman, entrepreneur, photographer, and community volunteer. Following a career in carpentry and custom homebuilding, he and his wife, author Nora Roberts, founded businesses in Boonsboro such as Turn the Page Bookstore and the Inn Boonsboro. Wilder is also an accomplished photographer whose work has been exhibited at the WCMFA and other regional venues. He continues his community involvement through leadership roles with the Nora Roberts Foundation and local library boards.

The museum also took a moment to honor the memory of Dr. George Edward Manger Jr., a devoted former member of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Manger, who passed away recently, dedicated many years to serving the museum and the Washington County community. He was widely recognized for his distinguished career as an obstetrician-gynecologist, spanning over four decades, during which he provided compassionate medical care and generously contributed his leadership to various community organizations. The WCMFA expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Manger’s guidance, support, and commitment to the importance of art and culture, noting that his contributions will remain a part of the museum’s lasting legacy. The Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, and the entire museum community extend their condolences to those who knew him.

The addition of these five trustees is expected to play a crucial role in advancing the museum’s strategic goals, including the expansion of educational programs, exhibitions, and community partnerships, while simultaneously honoring the WCMFA’s nearly century-long history.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

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