University Museums has found its new director and chief curator.

David Schmitz, who first became involved with University Museums in December 2025 as an interim academic engagement coordinator, begins the role on Monday.

As the Warren and Beverly Madden Endowed Director and Chief Curator of University Museums, Schmitz will oversee the art collections across all five museum units, integrating these exhibits into student learning and community life at Iowa State.

“As an Iowan, stepping into this role is especially meaningful. It is a privilege to continue work I care deeply about with colleagues and partners who share a commitment to ensuring the arts and culture remain central to the Iowa State experience and to advancing the university’s land-grant mission,” Schmitz said in a news release.

His previous coordinator role included planning how the museum’s exhibitions and art can aid student research and further success.

Prior to Iowa State, he worked with the Des Moines Art Center as a membership manager and recently served on the Iowa Arts Council. Schmitz was named the executive director at the Dubuque Museum of Art in 2015.

He received his bachelor’s in studio art from the University of Northern Iowa and his master’s in arts management from Columbia College Chicago.

Schmitz succeeds Lynette Pohlman, who served as director for 46 years and retired in June. During her time as director, she curated more than 30,000 artworks in the University Museums.

“I am deeply honored for the opportunity to work alongside our university leadership, professional staff, faculty, students, and supporters to build upon the extraordinary legacy of educational impact and cultural innovation established by Lynette Pohlman and generations of artists, scholars, and museum advocates,” Schmitz said in a news release.