The National Automobile Museum in Sparks Nevada has a storied past and rich history that started with the famed Harrah’s car collection, and has become one of the top automobile museums in the world. It is a must see, and has some seriously cool exhibits. There are hundreds of cars, lots of special collections, and amazing history that has gone through this awesome place and it is a true treasure. As you can imagine, museums, sports centers, and other entertainment venues have really suffered during the Covid pandemic and getting back open has been their only goal. Luckily the State of Nevada is now allowing museums like the National Automobile Museum to open so you can visit it without prior reservations. And to help move the museum into 2021 with a bang, they’ve brought in a brand new Executive Director who’s going to be a huge asset in making that happen.
RENO, Nev. (February 15, 2021) — The Board of Trustees of the National Automobile Museum are pleased to announce that Phil MacDougall has been named the Museum’s new executive director. The Board believes that as we recover from the pandemic and the uncertainties of 2020, MacDougall will lead the Museum forward to a much stronger position in the coming years with his excellent background in marketing, membership, fundraising and museum management.
MacDougall has extensive experience in all of these areas, having worked in similar roles for the NBA’s Sacramento Kings and the Arco Arena Entertainment Facility, Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, MacDougall Productions, California Museum of History, Asian Chamber of Commerce and Ebara Technologies.
He is transitioning from WIN (Western Industrial Nevada) where he served as their Executive Director. For the last half century, WIN has been one of the largest networking organizations in Northern Nevada and is dedicated to providing educational, inspiring and motivational speakers to our region on a monthly basis. His duties there included running day-to-day operations and working with the board on event planning, financial management, corporate sponsorships, marketing and member retention/recruitment.
Phil completed his studies at Richmond University in London, England; earning a bachelor’s degree in political science from Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, MA. He has always been active in his community, donating time and resources to: the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Board, the Northern Nevada International Center Board, the Gratis Gives Advisory Board, the American Heart Association, the Children’s Miracle Network Board, and the Rescue Union School board of trustees.
Phil said, “I am very excited to join the team at the National Auto Museum to help develop new and exciting programs that showcase our venue and all of its unique offerings. The Museum has something for everyone. I will be working to highlight all of those attributes, both locally and around the world, on a regular basis.”
Mr. MacDougall has lived in Sparks for the last three years with his wife Sheri. They have three grown children and three grandchildren that all live locally. He is originally from Boston, MA and loves movies, football and is a big fan of Elvis music.
Buddy Frank, who has been serving as the Interim Executive Director of the Museum since November of 2019, will join the Board of Trustees and temporarily serve as Chief Operating Officer.
For more information about the National Automobile Museum, named one of America’s Top 10 Automobile Museums, visit automuseum.org or call 775-333-9300.
