Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Michael A. Tomor after 40 years of working at and leading art museums across the nation, including more than a decade as Executive Director at the Tampa Museum of Art. Dr. Tomor has left a lasting impact on the Tampa Bay region through his dedication and civic leadership.

Tomor completed both his Master’s and Ph.D. studies in Art History at Pennsylvania State University. After finishing his education, he returned to his hometown of El Paso, where he began his professional career. Tomor’s work curating exhibitions, leading art education programs and directing art institutions has impacted millions, from students of all ages to artists and art lovers worldwide.

During his tenure, Tomor has been a passionate advocate for the role of art in children’s education and in uniting communities. His commitment to showcasing how museums foster learning and connection beyond the classroom reflects his dedication to enriching lives through art as a source of vitality and well-being.

Tomor’s guiding vision led him to serve as Executive Director of the Tampa Museum of Art, where he expanded the presence of artists in underserved school districts, tripling the number working directly with students. By integrating artistic activities into preschool programs, he helped develop methods that used creative expression to strengthen literacy. He later expanded these programs to serve military veterans coping with post-traumatic stress.

At the Tampa Museum of Art, Dr. Tomor oversaw a period of significant growth and transformation, reshaping the art landscape in Tampa by launching a major renovation and expansion project during its centennial year. The efforts enriched the museum’s collection by more than 1,500 works, broadened the cultural resources available to the public by adding approximately 32,000 square feet to the facility, and set the stage for an upcoming 51,000-square-foot expansion.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tomor has remained steadfast in advocating for civic and cultural engagement. He has often spoken about the importance of representation and authenticity in leadership, stating, “art is a reflection of so many things that make us human and encourages us to look beyond the surface.”

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Dr. Michael Tomor on his retirement and thank him for his dedication and service to the Tampa Bay area. He is a shining example of how hard work and service can inspire others to reach their highest potential. His legacy will continue to shape and strengthen our community for generations to come.