Murphy takes charge of fundraising efforts at Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute

UTICA, N.Y. — John Murphy of Clinton recently took over as director of development and donor relations at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute (MWPAI), the Institute announced.

Murphy was previously director of milestone reunions for Hamilton College, where he had secured nearly $10 million in gifts and pledges for the college’s current campaign, and more than $16 million in declared estate gift intentions. During his 23-year tenure, he has facilitated many new scholarship gifts and worked with hundreds of dedicated alumni donors and volunteers. 

MWPAI president and CEO Anna D’Ambrosio said Murphy was selected after a national search. “We are delighted to have John join the Munson-Williams staff,” she said in a release. “His dedication to the arts, combined with years of development and business experience, makes him a perfect fit for the Institute.”

Murphy has been a member of Munson-Williams for nearly 15 years and has served on the Institute’s Performing Arts Advisory Committee since 2018. He is a member of the B# Music Club and has worked with Players of Utica and Clinton Symphony Orchestra of the Mohawk Valley. 

“MWPAI is a tremendous asset to the region, and I look forward to facilitating their continued success and growth as we begin their second century as the premier cultural center for the Mohawk Valley,” Murphy said.

Murphy holds a master’s degree of music in voice and opera from the Northwestern University School of Music and a bachelor of arts degree from Hamilton College.

Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute says it creates “transformational arts experiences.” It offers more than 13,500 pieces in its permanent collection, concerts, community classes, and the PrattMWP College of Art and Design.