At Oglebay Institute, the arts are deeply rooted in community—and for our new Director of the Stifel Fine Arts Center, that connection is also personal.
We are thrilled to welcome Keen Owen as Director of the Stifel Fine Arts Center/Visual Arts, beginning June 8, 2026. As native of the Northern Panhandle he is happy to be here.
“I feel very excited!” Owen shared. “This organization, this institution is a major part of Wheeling here and it has been for a long time. It produces so many different and interesting art exhibits and different art classes. It’s such an important part of the community and I’m excited to join the legacy.”
Keen brings with him a strong background in museum leadership, curatorial practice, and community-focused programming. Most recently, he served as Acting Curator and Collections Manager at the West Virginia State Museum, where he led exhibition development, public engagement initiatives, and collections stewardship, while managing complex operational responsibilities.
He holds a Master’s degree in Public History from Duquesne University, grounding his work in inclusive storytelling, accessibility, and meaningful engagement with diverse audiences.
Earlier in his career, Keen worked in a variety of roles at the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, contributing to exhibitions, research, writing, and audience-centered programming—experiences that reflect his collaborative approach and commitment to connecting people with the arts. He also developed public programs for The Frick Pittsburgh and participated in collaborative design projects for the August Wilson House.
An accomplished visual artist, Keen approaches leadership through a creative lens, placing value on the artist’s voice and fostering authentic connections between art, education, and community. Across his career, he has consistently focused on bringing people together—whether through exhibitions, educational programs, or outreach initiatives.
“We are thrilled to welcome Keen to the Oglebay Institute team,” said Danielle Cross McCracken, President of Oglebay Institute. “His thoughtful community-focused approach and strong background in exhibitions and arts and education initiatives will build upon the Stifel Fine Arts Center’s legacy of artistic excellence and accessibility.”
In his new role, Keen will lead the vision and direction of the Stifel Fine Arts Center’s legacy while continuing to evolve and grow its impact throughout the Ohio Valley.
As we look ahead, we are inspired by Keen’s passion for the arts and his deep appreciation for this community. His return reminds us of something we’ve always known about Oglebay Institute–there truly is no place like home.