Glen Guyton Takes Helm of National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Glen Guyton assumed the role of president and chief operating officer at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in October. He arrived in Cincinnati on Oct. 31, a date he confirmed during a recent appearance on The Lincoln Ware Show. The move marks the end of an era for Woody Keown Jr., who will retire at the close of the year while continuing to work alongside Guyton during the transition.

Guyton, a Houston native and Air Force Academy graduate, previously served as the executive director of Mennonite Church USA from 2018. He cited his family’s fondness for the city, stemming from previous events he helped organize, as a factor in his acceptance of the position. He described his initial impression of the role as an opportunity to move beyond historical retrospection toward future planning.

In addressing the museum’s mission, Guyton stated that the institution must understand its history while looking forward. He noted that recent events have reinforced the need for continuous effort in these areas. He quoted the Bible, specifically Nehemiah 4:6, to frame his leadership philosophy, telling listeners, "We have to have a mind to work."

The new president emphasized that his tenure would not be a solo endeavor. He pledged to partner with the local community, asserting, "It’s not going to be me. It’s going to be all of us working together." This approach aligns with his view that the museum serves as a collaborative space for civic engagement and dialogue.

Guyton directed attention to the museum’s current programming. He highlighted the exhibit "Witness to the Journey," noting that it will close soon. He also listed upcoming community free admission days, including a scheduled event on Nov. 8 featuring a spoken word performance at 10:30 a.m. Additional free days are planned for Dec. 6 and Dec. 20, with further dates set for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth in the coming year.

During the broadcast, a caller raised the question of whether the museum adequately depicts the evils of slavery. Guyton responded by inviting the listener to visit the facility to observe the exhibits firsthand. He encouraged the caller to maintain the conversation, positioning the museum as an open venue for ongoing discussion rather than a static repository of facts.

The arrival of Guyton signals a shift in leadership for the institution located in Cincinnati. His background in nonprofit executive management and his stated focus on community collaboration set the tone for his initial months in the role. The transition period will see both Guyton and Keown Jr. active in the center's operations until Keown’s departure.