Georgia Humanities Names Dr. Mary McCartin Wearn as Next President

Atlanta—Georgia Humanities is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Mary McCartin Wearn as the organization’s next president, effective September 3, 2024. A humanities scholar and academic leader with a proven track record for developing meaningful public programs and partnerships, Wearn will guide the organization’s efforts to inspire curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning across Georgia. 

Before joining Georgia Humanities, Wearn built a reputation for community-focused leadership during her tenure at Middle Georgia State University. As the founding dean of the School of Arts and Letters, Wearn fostered partnerships with national, state, and local institutions, including the United States Air Force’s Museum of Aviation, the Ocmulgee Mounds Association, and the historic Douglass Theatre. Her work was instrumental in creating programs that brought arts and culture to life for audiences throughout the region, and she was a driving force in securing funding for these public-facing initiatives.

Wearn holds a Ph.D. in English from the University of Georgia, a B.A. in English from the University of Maryland Global Campus, and a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University. She has served in a number of nonprofit leadership and advisory positions and currently sits on the board of directors for the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Macon.

Speaking about her new role, Wearn shared: I am delighted by the opportunity to serve the people of Georgia in this new position. The public humanities allow us to cultivate community and connection by exploring the diversity of lived experience while also honoring our shared humanity. I am excited to support Georgia Humanities as it expands public engagement across the state and creates opportunities to build bridges of understanding.

Wearn is the fourth president in Georgia Humanities’ more than fifty-year history. Her appointment follows a comprehensive executive search process conducted by the Georgia Humanities Board of Directors in partnership with Emory University, the organization’s fiscal agent. Latonda Milner, who has served as interim president since February, will continue in her role as vice president of finance and operations.

“Dr. Wearn’s dedication and passion for the humanities, her experience with program development, and her success building community partnerships were attributes that stood out during our search,” said Lisa Smith, chair of the search committee. “We’re confident that Dr. Wearn will continue to highlight the value of the humanities across the state and encourage even more Georgians to engage with the humanities in meaningful ways in their everyday lives.”

Cameron Bean, board chair, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Mary Wearn as our new president. She is joining a phenomenal team, and I am excited about the enthusiasm and leadership she brings to our organization.

About Georgia Humanities

Through inclusive grants and programs, Georgia Humanities connects people and communities to spark curiosity, share ideas, amplify stories, and inspire action. Funding for Georgia Humanities is provided by the Georgia General Assembly, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and various foundations, donors, and partners. 

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