Paul Gutiérrez
Deputy Director of Visitor Experience & Public Engagement
Paul Gutiérrez is the Deputy Director of Visitor Experience & Public Engagement at The Museum of Kansas City, where he leads initiatives that connect diverse audiences to the Museum through innovative programming, community partnerships, visitor engagement, fundraising, and special events.
With more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit and public sectors, Paul has dedicated his career to strengthening communities through collaboration, cultural programming, and inclusive engagement. Prior to joining the Museum, he served as a community organizer and advocate in Kansas City’s Historic Northeast Scarritt Renaissance neighborhood. He earned a Bachelor of Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Social Work from The University of Kansas.
Before joining the Museum, Paul spent eight years at the Mattie Rhodes Center, one of Kansas City’s oldest nonprofit organizations, where he supported a wide range of initiatives—from providing direct mental health services to planning fundraising events that advanced community programs. His passion for building meaningful community connections continues to shape his work and leadership.
A first-generation American and the son of Mexican immigrants, Paul is bilingual and bicultural. He is committed to creating welcoming, accessible, and culturally relevant experiences that reflect the richness and diversity of Kansas City’s communities.
Paul has contributed his time and leadership to numerous civic and cultural organizations, including DIFFA Holidays by Design, Bacchus Ball, and the Neighbor to Neighbor Foundation. His leadership roles have included Event Chair of Starlight Theatre’s Center Stage Group-Young Professional Group, Committee Member of the Truman Medical Centers Charitable Foundation’s White Coat Gala, Co-Chair of the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art’s annual gala, Board Member of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival, Board Member of Charlotte Street Foundation, and Board Member and Co-Chair of Programming for Fashion Group International–Kansas City.
He currently serves on the Lyric Opera Circle of Kansas City and is Chairman of the 2028 Lyric Opera Ball. Paul has been recognized as a Fastest Rising Star by Kansas City Business Magazine and was named one of KC Magazine’s KC 100.
Areas of Expertise
- Visitor Experience & Public Engagement
- Community Engagement & Strategic Partnerships
- Multicultural & Multidisciplinary Program Development
- Fundraising & Philanthropic Events
- Audience Development
- Marketing & Public Relations
- Event Planning & Production
- Restorative Practices
- Nonprofit Leadership