Trustee, Co-Chair of 5A: African American Art Advisory Association, and Myrtle Wreath Society Member at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

"What you see on the walls is reflected in the people who work here and also in those who support us. Every single person in the city of Houston can come to the Museum and find something that reflects their culture. I want to make sure that this Museum is here for years and years to come."

For more than 35 years, Merinda Watkins-Martin has been deeply engaged with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston—as a Trustee, a longtime member, and co-chair of 5A: African American Art Advisory Association. Her commitment has always centered on opening doors and ensuring that everyone feels welcome at the Museum.

"One of my favorite exhibitions ever shown at the Museum was The Quilts of Gee's Bend in 2002," Merinda recalled. "To help spread the word, I reached out to local churches—predominantly African American congregations—to invite them to come see the show. It's not always something we do as a community, to say, 'Let's go to the Museum!' but I felt it was important. One pastor even let me speak from the pulpit about the exhibition."

After each service, Merinda stayed to answer questions. "One woman asked, 'Well, what do you wear?' I said, 'Sweetheart, you can wear anything.' Then she asked, 'Can I bring my kids?' and I told her, 'Absolutely.'"

When the group arrived at the Museum, Merinda stood at the door to welcome them with a familiar face. Merinda recalled, "At the end of their visit, a woman came up and hugged me. She said 'I don't know that I ever would have set foot in this place. It was absolutely beautiful—thank you for inviting me.' That moment was worth everything."

That same spirit of inclusion and connection inspires Merinda and her husband Reggie to include the MFAH in their future plans—ensuring that the Museum remains a place where everyone can see themselves reflected, and where art continues to bring people together for generations to come.