Program Details
Women of TMA - Museum Professionals Panel & Networking Reception
Saturday, March 8 | 3:00–4:00p.m. | GlasSalon
A special afternoon at the Toledo Museum of Art awaits as we celebrate the voices and experiences of women in the workforce, with a focus on the museum profession. This event will feature a panel discussion with a diverse group of museum professionals, offering insights into the different roles within a museum and the journey it takes to become a museum professional. Topics will include navigating the unique challenges and triumphs of being a woman in the workplace, how gender norms shape professional paths, balancing work and motherhood, and the vital contributions women make in the arts.
Throughout the discussion, we’ll celebrate women in the workplace and the evolving roles they play, while highlighting the importance of work-life balance, mentorship, and growth in the museum world. After the talk, this time also offers a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in the greater Toledo area who share an interest in the arts and professional development.
This free event is open to all members of the community, and we encourage everyone to attend and participate in this important conversation. Whether you’re a student, a professional in the arts, or someone interested in the evolving role of women in any workplace, this event is a chance to hear from those with lived experiences and to be part of an ongoing dialogue about the challenges, opportunities, and achievements of women in the workforce.
Following the panel, stay for a casual networking reception, where you can continue the conversation, celebrate, and enjoy complimentary light refreshments and beverages.
Individuals with disabilities, please indicate if you need accommodations, assistance or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event by contacting Access Initiatives, [email protected]. Please note that while we endeavor to provide everyone with a positive visitor experience, last-minute requests may not be accommodated; we ask for requests to be made, at minimum, 3 days prior to the event. Thank you.
Registration is encouraged, but not required; nonregistered guests are welcome and will be welcomed in as capacity allows. Admittance will be given with preference to registered guests. Registering for our events allows us to best plan for our audience size.
This event is co-organized by the Toledo Museum of Art's Women & Allies Employee Resource Group (ERG) in honor of International Women's Day. We welcome all community members to attend and be part of this important dialogue. Celebrate International Women's Day at TMA by attending this experience and other offerings at the Museum on Saturday, March 8, 2025.
Panel Moderator:
Dr. Jennifer McCary - Chief People, Culture, and Brand Experience Officer
Dr. Jennifer McCary serves as the Chief Culture and Brand Experience Officer at the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA), where she plays a pivotal role in operationalizing the museum’s strategic plan and fostering a culture rooted in communication, collaboration, connection, and accountability. Previously, Dr. McCary was the Chief Diversity and Belonging Officer at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), reporting directly to the president. In this role, she led the Division of Diversity and Belonging and contributed to the university’s strategic initiatives.
Dr. McCary holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in art education and stone sculpture, a Master of Arts degree in college student personnel, a graduate certificate in instructional design, and a Doctorate in organization development and change, all from BGSU. She serves on the Board of Trustees for Mercy College of Ohio and actively participates in various advisory committees.
A recognized leader in her field, Dr. McCary is a three-time TEDx speaker, an exhibiting artist, and the recipient of numerous honors. These include the 2019 Woman of Distinction award from BGSU, the 20 Under 40 award from the City of Toledo in 2019, recognition as a Top Diversity Officer by the National Diversity Council in 2021, and most recently, her naming as a Top 100 Diversity Officer at the National Diversity & Leadership Conference in 2024.
Nationally known as a Title IX expert, Dr. McCary is trained in civil rights investigations, trauma-informed practices, forensic evidence collection, restorative justice, and bystander intervention. She holds certifications as a diversity professional, affirmative action professional, and in Results-Based Accountability. Dr. McCary frequently trains on topics such as unconscious bias, bystander intervention, and strategic planning, and she consults on DEIB, culture transformation, and Title IX compliance.
Committed to improving organizational climates and cultures, Dr. McCary has made it her mission to create environments where communication and accountability thrive, and where individuals and organizations can achieve their highest potential.
Panelists
Risa Smith - Director of Protective Services
Risa Smith is the Director of Protective Services at the Toledo Museum of Art, where she leads security operations to ensure the safety of visitors, staff, and the museum’s world-class collection. With over seven years of experience in cultural property protection and a distinguished background in the United States Marine Corps, Risa brings expertise in emergency response, event security, and surveillance. Her leadership has strengthened the museum’s security infrastructure, enhancing preparedness and response strategies. Committed to cultural preservation, Risa is dedicated to creating a secure and welcoming environment that allows art and visitors to thrive.
Jessica Mack - Community Outreach Manager
Jessica Mack joined the Toledo Museum of Art in July 2024 as the Community Outreach Manager. She has been instrumental in building and strengthening relationships with local community centers, schools, churches, and libraries, significantly expanding the museum’s outreach initiatives. Under her leadership, TMA’s outreach efforts have successfully increased attendance and engagement, supported by a major grant that enhances programming for local senior centers, while also revitalizing both existing and past partnerships with after school programming.
Jessica is passionate about the transformative power of art and its ability to strengthen communities. She believes art fosters connection, creativity, and understanding, serving as a universal language that unites people. Through close collaboration with diverse groups, Jessica ensures that TMA’s programs remain accessible and impactful, inspiring individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the arts and the museum in meaningful ways.
Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Art Education with a double major in Psychology, and a focus on Art Therapy. Her professional background includes extensive experience in community service and program development. Before joining TMA, she served as the District Teen and Family Director for the YMCA of Greater Toledo. In this role, she worked with community partners to develop impactful teen programs, focusing on college readiness, career planning, entrepreneurship, and mentorship opportunities.
In addition to her organizational roles, Jessica has owned and operated a local art studio, Paint Your Place, for the past 17 years. Through her studio, she has brought creative expression to intergenerational audiences, fostering artistic exploration for people of all ages. Her dedication to her community and the arts continues to inspire innovative programming and meaningful connections throughout the Toledo area.
Annabelle Nolasco - Conservation Technician
Annabelle Nolasco has served as a Conservation Technician with The Toledo Museum of Art for almost two years. Prior to this role, she gained extensive experience working with museums at the local, university, and federal levels. Annabelle’s passion for making history more accessible led her to pursue a college degree at the age of 13 and later pursue a Master’s in History. Her dedication to preserving and sharing people’s history and culture has driven her career, which has included experiences such as: local archivist, an intern Historian and cataloguer for Michigan Tech’s Archaeological Program, assisting with emergency flood salvage for Houghton County Historical Society’s collections, internship with the National Council for Preservation Education, and serving as a Museum Technician for the National Park Service, where she worked on the Keweenaw, Isle Royale, and Pictured Rocks collections.