YOUNGSTOWN — Executive director is Louis A. Zona’s official title at the Butler Institute of American Art, but one of his favorite roles in his 44 years at the museum is missionary.

“It’s the art. My ability to share these artistic ideas and art historical subjects, I just love doing it, I love talking about it,” Zona, 81, said. “I love walking children through the galleries and talking to them about what these things mean. It’s missionary work.”

The Butler Board of Trustees announced Thursday it was appointing Larry W. Jones as interim director and would conduct an international search for a permanent replacement.

Zona will remain involved as director emeritus, according to Board President Ryan Martino.

“Obviously we want to keep Dr. Zona around as long as we can,” Martino said. “He’s

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