Prof. Coleman Hampton

Education

B.A., Baylor University
M.A., Baylor University

Academic and Professional Interests

Coleman Hampton is Executive Director of the Bell County Museum in Belton, Texas. He holds a B.A. in History and M.A. in Museum Studies from Baylor University. During his tenure at Bell County Museum, Hampton has increased audience focused programs, created an inclusive museum environment, and built lasting relationships with regional schools. Under his leadership, Bell County Museum was awarded the 2021 John L. Nau III Award for Excellence in Museums for permanent exhibit “Discover Bell County”.

Prof. Hampton has served on Executive Council for Texas Association of Museums, is past chair of Texas Brazos Trail Region and Prehistoric Texas Education Initiative, and a member of the Rotary Club of Temple. He is an active museum advocate, making regular presentations at conferences, group meetings, and gatherings of elected officials.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time with wife Marianna, tenured professor of Communication Studies at McLennan Community College, and their incredible daughter.

What is your favorite museum?

I think museums are about experience and memories. Each museum visit is special and unique. Who were you with during the visit?  Which exhibits or programs did you enjoy? How were interactions with museum staff? What memories did you make? We have so many wonderful museums across the state, country, and world. It is hard to choose a favorite. That said, my favorite museum memories are at the Mayborn Museum Complex. I watched the Mayborn Museum being built in the early 2000s, worked there as an undergraduate student, visited many times with my wife, took classes as a graduate student, teach classes as an adjunct professor, and now visit all the time with our daughter. The incredible trove of positive memories at the Mayborn Museum Complex makes it my favorite museum. 

Primary Courses Taught

• Non-Profit Perspectives (U)
• Introduction to Museums (U)