Seasoned Museum Professional Brings 14 Years of Experience and Will Expand Programs and Partnerships That Celebrate Las Vegas’ Cultural and Artistic History
The Neon Museum has announced the appointment of Melisa McChesney as its new Director of Lifelong Learning. McChesney brings more than 14 years of museum experience and a proven record of creating inclusive, community-driven educational programs.
“I’m thrilled to join The Neon Museum and contribute to its mission of celebrating the vibrant history and culture of Las Vegas,” said McChesney. “This city has an incredible spirit of reinvention, and the Museum’s collection tells that story in such a powerful way. I’m excited to build programs that inspire curiosity and connection, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the art, design and history that make Las Vegas a community unlike anywhere else.”
Utilizing her background in Museum Studies and Anthropology, McChesney will oversee The Neon Museum’s lifelong learning initiatives. This includes school programs, workshops, lectures and community partnerships that illuminate Las Vegas’ cultural and artistic history.
Prior to joining The Neon Museum, McChesney served as Curator of Community Engagement at Wyoming State Museum, where she led educational initiatives and outreach programs that connected thousands of residents across the state each year. Her work emphasized accessibility and participation, building meaningful bridges between museums and the diverse communities they serve.
Aaron Berger, Executive Director of The Neon Museum said, “Melisa’s experience and passion for collaborative, engaging learning experiences make her an outstanding addition to our team. Her leadership will help us expand the Museum’s educational reach and deepen connections with audiences of all ages.”
ABOUT THE NEON MUSEUM
The Neon Museum illuminates the cultural essence of Las Vegas by sharing iconic signage, diverse collections and stories that define its vibrant past, present and future. Its core values seek to create a sense of belonging for everyone; promote scholarship through its work and collaborations; offer fun engagement that reflects the spirit of Las Vegas; and demonstrate overall excellence.
Founded in 1996, The Neon Museum achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) in 2021, the highest national honor for museums in the United States. Situated on a 2.27-acre campus, the Museum features:
- The Neon Boneyard: An outdoor exhibition space displaying historic signs no longer in use.
- The North Gallery: Home to Brilliant! Jackpot, an immersive audiovisual experience that re-illuminates over 40 non-operational signs using advanced technology.
- The Boulevard Gallery: A transitional space showcasing collection pieces.
- The Visitors’ Center: Located in the iconic former La Concha Motel lobby designed by famed architect Paul Revere Williams.
- The Neon Boneyard Park: A green space where visitors can learn more of Las Vegas’ rich history.
The museum’s collection also includes 15 restored signs displayed as public art in downtown Las Vegas collectively known as The Las Vegas Boulevard Scenic Byway Project and additional pieces on loan to non-profits and government entities. Its ongoing initiatives encompass public education, outreach, research, and arts preservation.
For more information, including tour schedules and tickets, visit www.neonmuseum.org. Also follow @NeonMuseum on Facebook and @theneonmuseumlasvegas on Instagram.
THE NEON MUSEUM TO HOST “STEAM FAMILY FEST: NATURE AND SUSTAINABILITY,” NOVEMBER 22
