Ebony Taylor to lead operations as new Director of The Carnegie Center of Jackson, TN
Jackson, Tenn. – The City of Jackson is proud to announce the appointment of Ebony S. Taylor as the new Director of The Carnegie Center of Jackson, TN. An experienced educator, minister, arts administrator, and community leader, Taylor brings a lifelong passion for history, education, the arts, and community empowerment to one of Jackson’s most cherished cultural landmarks.
A Strong Foundation in Arts & Community Engagement
Taylor holds degrees from Union University and Louisiana Baptist Theological Seminary. She transitions into her new role after serving as the Office & Community Education Manager at The Ned R. McWherter West Tennessee Cultural Arts Center in Jackson. During her tenure at The Ned, she excelled at bridging the gap between artistic programming, educational outreach, and neighborhood engagement—skills that will directly inform her strategic vision for The Carnegie Center.
As Director, Taylor will oversee operations and programming at the historic facility, which serves as the home of The Legends of Tennessee Music Museum. Her vision centers on honoring the institution’s rich foundation while actively expanding community partnerships, cultural experiences, and educational programming.
"I believe the arts have the power to connect generations, preserve stories, and give people a place to see themselves and their possibilities," said Ebony Taylor. "At The Carnegie, I look forward to honoring and continuing the work already established while expanding programming, community engagement, and cultural experiences throughout Jackson. My goal is not simply to preserve what The Carnegie has been, but to build upon its legacy and help people imagine everything it can become."
"Ebony brings a powerful blend of community leadership, passion for local history, and deep artistic administrative experience to this role," said Mayor Scott Conger. "Her impressive track record at The Ned proves that she knows how to connect people through cultural programming. The Carnegie Center and the Legends of Tennessee Music Museum are vital pillars of Jackson’s story, and I am confident that under Ebony’s leadership, these spaces will continue to inspire, educate, and welcome residents and visitors for generations to come."
About The Carnegie Center of Jackson
Rooted in community initiative dating back to the 1830s Jackson Reading Room, The Carnegie Center was built through a $30,000 Andrew Carnegie grant secured by Reverend Mark Matthews. The landmark facility officially opened on March 3, 1903, serving as Jackson’s primary public library for 65 years. Following a comprehensive community-led restoration by Jackson Parks and Recreation employees and local citizens in 1987, the building reopened in 1988 as a multi-purpose cultural space.
Located at 305 E. College St. in downtown Jackson (with basement theatre access on N. Church St.), The Carnegie has served as an art gallery, event space, and Children’s Discovery Museum. Today, it stands as a vibrant community museum and home to The Legends of Tennessee Music Museum, offering art and music classes, performing arts, and cultural exhibits that celebrate the region's rich heritage.