FRAMINGHAM – On October 17, the Danforth received word that it is the recipient of a $50,000 endowment gift from Framingham State alumna, Joan E. Murtaugh ‘61. Her gift will be added to The Joan E. Murtaugh ’61 Conservation Fund, established in 2022 “for the purpose of repairing and restoring existing and newly acquired artwork.”
“Art conservation can be very expensive,” said Museum Director and Curator, Jessica Roscio. “It is a consistent need for us, and this generous and unexpected gift will help us care for our permanent collection and make it more accessible to the public. Joan understands our needs, and we are delighted with her support.”
A former teacher, Joan is a long-time supporter of Framingham State who taught as well as mentored teachers in training at the University. She is also a two-term member of the FSU Foundation Board. “Art conservation helps preserve and safeguard an artist’s work for future generations,” commented Joan. “It also helps future generations to learn and appreciate the past.”
Through the support of additional generous donors, in the past five years the Danforth has also established endowed funds specific to museum education, art acquisition, curatorial support, and art school scholarships.
In honor of her donation, an exhibition space in the Museum will be named the Delos Reyes Murtaugh Gallery.
The Danforth was founded in 1975, and became a part of Framingham State University in 2018. It serves over thirty communities in MetroWest and beyond, and is the only museum with an art school between Boston and Worcester.
The A Cappella Singers 
Curtis Family Thanksgiving 
Representative Jack Lewis