Crosby_Kemper_III
Crosby Kemper III
American government official
Rufus Crosby Kemper III is the former director of the U.S. National Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Previously director of the Kansas City Public Library from 2005 until 2020, Kemper's other experience includes CEO/Chairman of UMB Financial Corporation.[1][2]
In 2005, Kemper co-founded the Show-Me Institute with Rex Sinquefield. He chaired the Missouri Commission on the Future of Higher Education and additionally served on various boards, including the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, the Kansas City Symphony, the Black Archives of Mid-America, and acted as founding chairman of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival.[3] Under his leadership the Kansas City Public Library received the 2008 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, awarded to American libraries and museums with outstanding service to their communities.[4]