Farmington Hires New Museum Director

Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 9:21 AM

“Nathan’s expertise in the museum industry, combined with his global perspective and passion for community engagement, make him a tremendous asset to Farmington,” said Christa Chapman, Director of Cultural Affairs. “We’re excited to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Farmington Museum System.”

From the City of Farmington

June 6, 2025

The City of Farmington is pleased to announce Nathan Augustine as the new Director of the Farmington Museum System. Nathan began his role in April and brings more than three decades of museum experience and cultural leadership to the position.

Most recently from Iowa, Nathan spent 14 years as curator for John Deere’s acclaimed art and historical equipment collections, where he showcased both the iconic green tractors and a world-class art collection designed to foster global awareness and creativity. His work has led him to museum collaborations around the world, including in London, Paris, Montreal, and Madrid.

Nathan’s museum career began at Brigham Young University’s Museum of Art and has since spanned four art and history institutions, a corporate collection, and the launch of three new museums. He also served as President of the Board for Quad City Arts, advocating for arts education and cultural initiatives throughout the Midwest.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Nathan is an avid explorer with a love for rockhounding, genealogy, vexillology, and even Lego building. He and his wife have long envisioned Farmington as their ideal retirement destination and are now excited to call the Four Corners home.

“The Farmington Museum System is an amazing place. I've been very impressed with the staff and with the community's support for the museums. I’m eager to get to know all of you and work together to make the Farmington Museum System a thriving cultural hub and a true point of pride for our community,” said Nathan Augustine, Director of the Farmington Museum System.

With deep roots in both history and innovation, Nathan looks forward to building on the museum’s strong foundation and working with the community to expand its cultural reach and impact.

For more information about the Farmington Museum and upcoming programs, visit FarmingtonMuseum.org.

More from Local News

Durango Begins Water Restrictions

Irrigation for lawns accounts for 70% of Durango’s water usage, so outdoor landscape will be limited to three days a week between the hours of 7 p.m. and 9 a.m. for both residential and commercial users. Odd-numbered addresses are restricted to watering on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Even-numbered addresses are restricted to watering on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Outdoor landscape irrigation is prohibited during all hours on Wednesdays.
Candidates for San Juan County Sheriff Speak with KSJE

All four republican candidates for San Juan County Sheriff have sat down for an interview with KSJE General Manager Scott Michlin.
Police ID Suspect and Officers involved in Hines Rd. Shooting

Upon arrival, officers observed a male and female walking who matched the provided descriptions. Officers gave commands for Leon Quintana (27) to place his hands on his head and walk backward toward them. During the encounter, Mr. Quintana hesitated and shifted his movements while officers continued giving commands. He then produced a firearm and fired a shot toward officers, striking an officer’s patrol car. A second shot was also fired.
2 Year Old Reunited with Father, Mother Arrested

A complex investigation began, tracking Ms. Salazar across multiple states with cooperation from several law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, that concluded last week when Ms. Salazar was arrested on her warrant and the child was returned to New Mexico where he is now with Mr. West.
Candidates File to Run in the NM June 2nd Primary

These candidates have filed to run in the New Mexico Primary on June 2, 2026. We are only listing candidates in CONTESTED races.
Navajo Nation agrees (again) to help fund N-36/NM 371 Intersection Improvements

The agreement authorizes NDOT to transfer $2,790,647 to NMDOT to administer procurement and construction of the NM371/N36 Intersection Improvement Project. This long-needed project will include roadway widening and the installation of a traffic signal and lighting system designed to reduce accidents, improve traffic flow, and enhance overall public safety for residents, school buses, emergency responders, and travelers who rely on this heavily used corridor.