Marilyn Stokstad, a former professor of art history at Kansas University, has made a gift to create an endowed directorship at KU’s Spencer Museum of Art.

“The Spencer Museum is one of the jewels of the University of Kansas,” said Stokstad.

Stokstad, of Lawrence, joined the KU faculty in 1958 and taught more than 20 different courses until she retired in 2002.

She is the Judith Harris Murphy Distinguished Professor Emerita of Art History. An expert in medieval art and Spanish art, she is the author of art history textbooks used widely by universities. She directed the KU Museum of Art, which is now named the Spencer Museum of Art, from 1961 to 1968, and served as associate dean of KU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences from 1972 to 1976.

“My gift will support the director’s position in ways that will enhance research, education and an appreciation of the arts’ contributions to society. I’m thrilled to be able to make this gift, which will benefit the museum in perpetuity,” she said.