Trent Riley has excelled in leadership and development positions in museums and nonprofit cultural organizations for more than a decade. Prior to becoming executive director, he served as Oklahoma Contemporary's chief development officer, leading the Development department and directing fundraising efforts in support of its institutional mission, programs, special projects and operations. Now in the role of executive director, Trent leverages this experience to spearhead the organization's renewed emphasis on mission, financial growth and providing contemporary art experiences to local, regional and national audiences.
At the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Trent contributed to generating more than $30 million in revenue over the span of eight years. He has also worked for state and local museums, providing support in historical research, interpretation and exhibition development.
Trent holds a B.A. and M.A. in history from Oklahoma State University. As a historian and author, he has contributed to numerous publications and received national recognition for his work in Publishers Weekly, as well as being named a finalist for the 2019 Oklahoma Book Award. He is a member of multiple local and national organizations and currently serves on the boards of both the Oklahoma Arts Institute Foundation and Upward Transitions. Trent also volunteers at organizations such as Positive Tomorrows, where he is a student mentor. He currently resides in downtown Oklahoma City with his wife, Blakely, and sons, Archie and Louis.
Email: director (at) okcontemp.org
