Ann Mullis

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in northeast Arkansas and Jackson, Tennessee, moved first to Nashville and then to Memphis in 1974. I worked at FedEx for 25 years, the last eight in Hong Kong where I was Vice President of Human Resources. I enjoy movies, books, traveling and spending time with my family. I am lucky enough to be able to spend almost half the year in San Francisco.

What interested you in the Dixon?

I am an avid museum visitor, having toured many museums during my travels. I joined the Dixon in 2009 and visited often, many times with my granddaughter Mallory. I have fond memories of touring the galleries and strolling the gardens with her.

In your experiences with the Dixon, have there been any surprises?

The quality of the exhibitions and the supporting education programs that accompany them have always impressed me. I enjoy Munch and Learn and have been inspired by the diversity of program growth emphasized in the exhibitions and education programs.

You have made a generous provision for the Dixon in your estate plan. What inspired that gift?

I believe that it is important to support the continuation of our community’s treasures so that they are preserved for future generations. I hope my support will enable those future generations to enjoy what I enjoy now.

Would you encourage other donors to make planned gifts to the Dixon?

This is a very personal decision for every donor. Lives and situations vary. When I made the decision to make a deferred gift to the Dixon, I wanted to direct some of my assets to an organization that I value rather than leaving those decisions to others. I am comfortable knowing that the Dixon will receive a contribution from my estate, and my family does not have to make that decision on my behalf.

Have you had experiences—positive or negative—with other museums from which the Dixon could benefit?

In my travels, I have enjoyed huge shows presented by large museums with very familiar names. However, I prefer the more intimate venues like the Dixon, the Legion of Honor in San Francisco, and the Wallace Collection in London. I am a member of several museums in this country and abroad and appreciate that my membership gives me access to learn more about the internal workings and upcoming programs at those museums. I see membership as a way of providing financial support while creating the opportunity to get to know the institution better.

As you reflect on the future of the Dixon, what are your hopes?

The amazing gift that established the new Liz and Tommy Farnsworth Education Building has impacted education and outreach to include more children and adults in its programming. I applaud the Dixon for extending its reach to a larger community so that those who have few opportunities for cultural enrichment can experience it there. It is important for the Dixon to engage its donors in conversations and experiences that will make it clear how contributions are used. But my overall hope is for the Dixon to continue to do what it does well.

What are your hopes for the future of Memphis?

This is a difficult question. Memphis faces huge challenges, and these challenges impact every aspect of our community, including the Dixon. I hope that our leaders will see the importance of continuing to come together to share ideas and relate to the feelings and needs of others. Finding shared goals can open doors to positive change.

Your planned gift establishes part of your legacy. Based on your personal legacy, do you have a message to share with our members and supporters?

It took me five years after returning to Memphis to join the Dixon and to realize the value of supporting the institution that means so much to me. the Dixon is a peaceful place to reflect on your life and your future. My recommendation is to join, visit often, and support the Dixon as generously as you can. Then consider how you can help to endow the future Dixon with your estate gift.

Thank you, Ann, for sharing your thoughts on your support for the Dixon and how museums have enhanced your life and your travels. Ann’s contribution from her estate will support a number of programs that make Memphis a better place to live. You, too, can make a difference not only at the Dixon, but also in the community we share. For more information on making a planned gift to the Dixon, please contact the Office of Planned Giving at (901) 312-1243 or sjohnson@dixon.org.