March 5, 2026 Notes by Noros Martin
President, Cara, gonged the bell that brought us to our feet, to start today’s meeting of the Rotary Club of Wichita Falls at 12:05. David Hartman, lead us with a wonderful invocation – thank you Dave for your special words. David Spencer came to the podium to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance and we then all joined together and to sing “America the Beautiful”.
We were pleased to have several guest of Rotary today. Thanks for being a part of the meeting today, and hopefully you will return again soon. President Cara asked for any Sunshine Reports today. Several persons were mentioned. We hope those with health issues have a speedy recovery and continue to improve.
Several Rotarians stepped forward to deposit money for the Brag Bucket. There were several Rotarians, Carla Dowlen and Will Goodner bragging about their family members in sporting events. It is always great to have winners. Keep up the great work ALL. We are proud to have so many Rotarians sharing with us about their friends, family and loved ones regarding special occasions in their lives.
President Cara asks for afterschool transportation assistance for our exchange student – several Rotarians offered to help.
President Cara ask that all NEW Blue Badge Rotary and current RED Badge members to please remain for a few minutes after the meeting to discuss future projects for our Clubs consideration.
Our very own, Josh Phillips, then came to the podium to introduce todays program. Josh introduced Matthew “Matt” Bailey, Director of the MSU Museum of Art. Matt began his journey in higher education at Pittsburgh State in Kansas, and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Kansas, as well as a doctorate and PhD in history from Washington University in St. Louis.
Matt told us that the WFMA was established in 1965 by the Junior League of Wichita Falls and will be celebrating it 60 anniversary next year. They have a small staff of 6 persons; with some member’s doing 2 or 3 different jobs.
Our speaker also brings more than 20 years of education experience to WFMA. As a curator he compares his work to the work he conducted as an educator, saying that his goal is to spark a curiosity for the arts. This philosophy extends outside the classroom as well.
The functions of the Museum, in Matt’s words are to (1) Educate, (2) Preservation, (3) Collect Things and (4) Display. He told us that there are currently 3 Exhibits at the Museum for viewing by the public. One current exhibit is showing printings of the American Revolution. This exhibit is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Matt told us that one of his goals for the WFAM would be able to help educate more people in the North Central Texas area about the many services they have to offer.
Matt, Thank you for your great and informative program regarding the Wichita Falls Art Museum this afternoon.
The meeting ended at 1:00 PM, with members standing and reciting the 4 Way test