Step Forward with Us! Exploring Strategies for Belonging in Museums

Join us for the Belonging Symposium, ADVANCE: Forward-Thinking Strategies for Belonging in Museums/Lessons Learned & Pathways Forward, a three-day immersive event hosted by the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA) from April 24-26, 2025, in Toledo, Ohio. This gathering is your opportunity to learn, grow, and connect as we explore best practices and pathways forward for fostering belonging through shared narratives.

Why This Symposium? Why Now?

In today’s rapidly changing world, fostering belonging has never been more critical. This Belonging for Museums Symposium provides attendees with invaluable insights into creating inclusive, equitable, and transformative spaces. Through dynamic keynote speakers, expert panelists, and engaging activities, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to enhance your work and personal impact, especially in the arts and culture sector. Be part of this powerful movement to build communities rooted in understanding and connection.

Schedule Overview

Thursday, April 24, 2025

• Evening Kick-Off Reception
• Location: TolHouse, Toledo’s premier private/public social club. Enjoy an evening of networking, hors d’oeuvres, and live entertainment to set the tone for the symposium.

Friday, April 25, 2025

• Full Day of Programming
• Engage with renowned speakers and thought leaders during a series of keynotes, breakout sessions, and panel discussions. Topics will include:
  •  Storytelling and Belonging: Pathways to Inclusion  Equity in the Arts: Expanding the Narrative
  •  Building Bridges Through Community Partnerships

Post-Lunch Optional Activities (Reservations Required):

1. DEAI Wellness Collage Activity: Facilitated by Michaela Ayers, founder of Nourish, Inc.. Create a personal wellness collage that reflects your journey toward belonging. Capacity: 50 participants.

2. Docent-Led Tours of TMA's Glass Pavilion: Discover artwork from around the globe in the Glass Pavilion galleries. This guided tour will highlight various glass artworks. Three tours are available, each with a capacity of 15 participants.

3. Docent Ask Me Hours: Explore the Glass Pavilion or Green Building galleries at your own pace during Docent "Ask Me Hours". During the hour a Docent will be available in the galleries to assist with any questions you have about the artworks. 

4. Sip N Shop at the TMA Store: Enjoy a power hour of shopping, featuring art by local artists and gifts at all price points. Wine and mocktails will be served. Capacity: 40 participants.
5. Chris “Chilly” Rodriguez artist talk in TMA Community Gallery. Capacity: 50 seated

Saturday, April 26, 2025

• Morning Sessions
• Continue the dialogue with insightful closing reflections from two major technology experts – from OpenAI and from TMA Labs, to synthesize your learnings and set intentions for DEAI (diversity, equity, access and inclusion) as it relates to the future.
• Optional Visit to the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): Explore one of the nation’s most renowned art museums. Visit the DIA’s website for more information.

Travel Notes

Most Toledo visitors fly into Detroit, Michigan, located just 45 minutes to one hour from Toledo. Plan your travel accordingly on the final day of the Belonging Symposium (Saturday, April 26) to take advantage of a visit to the DIA, this nearby cultural gem.

Hotel Booking Information

Residence Inn Toledo West (20 Rooms)