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Western Illinois University continues to prepare students for impactful careers in the arts. Brian Allen (‘13), a graduate of WIU’s Museum Studies program, was hired by Quad City Arts in Rock Island, IL, where he now contributes to arts programming across the region.
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WIU Alumni Brian Allen Leads Quad City Arts

December 16, 2025

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University continues to prepare students for impactful careers in the arts. Brian Allen (‘13), a graduate of WIU's Museum Studies program, was hired by Quad City Arts in Rock Island, IL, where he now contributes to arts programming across the region.

Quad City Arts is a non-profit arts organization serving a six-county area in eastern Iowa and northwestern Illinois. They are dedicated to the growth and vitality of the Quad City region through the presentation, development and celebration of the arts by offering the community arts opportunities, programming and community events.

Allen started his application with a resume, cover letter and references. It was then followed up with a series of written questions. Finalists in the application process were then selected to give a presentation to the search committee as part of the formal interview. The final two candidates participated in an informal lunch with the board and staff to conclude the selection process.

"My time at WIU taught me the importance of non-profit organizations and the value of creating a positive visitor experience. These lessons stayed with me throughout my work at the Figge Art Museum and the German American Heritage Center and Museum," Allen said. "I wouldn't be where I am today without the knowledge, insight and networking opportunities provided by the program."

As executive director, Allen is in charge of running Quad City Arts. This consists of overall strategy, financial management, fundraising, staff management, community relations, and working with the Board of Directors.

In Allen's previous roles, he had the opportunity to hire interns and graduate assistants from WIU, collaborated with faculty on grant proposals and programs, and helped bring a contemporary art installation to a museum after discovering the artist's work at WIU.

Allen continues to stay connected to WIU through relationships with current students and faculty. Allen received his MA from WIU in 2013.
To learn more about WIU's Museum Studies program, visit https://www.wiu.edu/cofac/qc/museumstudies/.

Posted By: Keyana Cruse (k-cruse@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing