Mohannad Ghawanmeh brings a lifelong love of jazz and a deep regard for Kansas City’s central place in its story. Previously, Dr. Ghawanmeh served as President and Executive Director of Public Art Saint Paul, where he stewarded the organization’s public art programs and led the Wakpa Triennial Art Festival, a multi-agency, citywide celebration of art and place. Before that, he was Executive Director of Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture in Philadelphia, where he directed exhibitions, performances, and arts education across venues, universities, and twenty-two public schools, and led growth in audiences, staff, and budget.

A scholar, film producer, and artistic director, he holds a PhD in Cinema and Media Studies from UCLA and has taught at universities and colleges for many years. He cofounded the Twin Cities Arab Film Festival and directed it for roughly a decade.

Dr. Ghawanmeh approaches the Museum’s work with humility and a deep sense of responsibility to the music, to the generations of artists who built Kansas City’s jazz tradition, and to the neighbors, visitors, and partners who sustain 18th & Vine. He is dedicated to ensuring that this legacy continues to be heard, studied, and celebrated.