In 1996, a girl moved to Lufkin after graduating from Baylor and growing up in Park Ridge, Illinois. She soon learned that Lufkin had a place called the Museum of East Texas (MET) which opened in 1976—and that admission was always free. The MET had three galleries, a historic chapel, and it even had a room for children’s art activities. She soon discovered that this place not only had changing exhibits, but also provided free field trips for Lufkin students in 5K-5th grade, it was starting a holiday tradition called the Festival of Trees, it was home to the Junior League of Lufkin, and it hosted four weekend events for families every year for no cost. In 1998, the MET hosted its first summer Art Camp. As the years passed, this girl became a mom and her children attended Art Camp, Super Saturday events, and looked forward to decorating trees. I’ve been honored to serve as Director of the MET since 2023 and watch the many lives this place touches—it truly is the gem of East Texas!

The Museum of East Texas enriches and educates the diverse communities of East Texas through the celebration and exploration of art. The Museum is committed to providing inclusive access to dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, and creative experiences that inspire lifelong learning.