Jay Harrison, director of Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College, is leaving to take a teaching position at Hood College in Frederick, Maryland.

Hood is a coed, liberal arts institution that traces its beginning to 1893.

Harrison, who arrived at FLC in 2012, brought national exposure to the center’s collections through exhibitions, publications and the introduction of graduate research in collaboration with regional universities.

The center’s mountain lion exhibit continues to travel the country, as do its textile exhibitions of Southwestern pieces.

“When Jay came to Fort Lewis College, he talked about his vision for expanding the center’s reputation nationwide,” said FLC President Dene Kay Thomas. “He has done a wonderful job, and I am grateful for the time he has given us. We are the better for his service.”

daler@durangoherald.com