Fiscal Year 2026 Impact Report
Investing in the Future
Pictured: Olivia Vallandingham, Former Public Relations Intern
Creating Opportunity
Behind every exhibition, educational program, conservation project and visitor experience are talented professionals dedicated to the museum field. And behind each of those professionals are years of learning, training, mentorship and leadership development. “My summer as the Public Relations Intern at the Toledo Museum of Art was the most professionally rewarding experience of my life.” OLIVIA VALLANDINGHAM
Former Public Relations Intern, Toledo Museum of Art; Currently, Producer, WTVG
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Cultivating the next generation of museum leaders is an ongoing endeavor, and in FY26 your dollars helped the Toledo Museum of Art provide critical internships, fellowships, mentorship and professional development experiences. Through you, emerging professionals gained hands-on experience, honed specialized skills and laid foundations for careers that will build museums and cultural institutions for decades to come.
Impact at a Glance
INTERNS SUPPORTED VIA THE CLEMENT FUND
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FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FUNDED
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FY26 Impact Report: Investing in the Future
Helping Build the Talent Pipeline
Fellowship Spotlight
Preparing the next generation of museum professionals requires more than classroom learning. Handson experience; working alongside experienced mentors; contributing to meaningful projects — these are the opportunities that have real impact for emerging talent. During FY26, your support of fellowships and internships at TMA helped up-and-coming professionals build skills, confidence and professional networks, ultimately strengthening the future of museums and cultural institutions nationwide.
Adero Kauffman-Okoko is just such an individual. Her journey as an intern, and then a fellow, at TMA launched her career at the Museum. Her story demonstrates the power of your gift to help starting professionals develop expertise, build connections and establish lasting careers in the museum field. “I pursued a career in museums because I believe art has an incredible ability to connect people … The support behind [the Kress and KeyBank fellowships] provided me with access to experiences and mentorship that are invaluable early in a museum career, shaping how I understand the field and how I hope to contribute to its future.” ADERO KAUFFMANN-OKOKO
Grants Program Specialist, Toledo Museum of Art
Pictured: Adero Kauffmann-Okoko, Grants Program Specialist, Toledo Museum of Art
Toledo Museum of Art
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A Bright Future
Yesterday’s fellows and interns are now vital contributors to museums, cultural organizations, educational institutions and creative industries across the nation. By investing in emerging professionals today, you are shaping a vibrant and productive future for the museums of tomorrow.
“When donors invest in people, they are investing in the future of the museum profession. Every fellowship, internship, and specialized role creates opportunities for learning, mentorship, and innovation that extend far beyond a single project or exhibition. These experiences shape careers, strengthen institutions, and ensure that museums continue to serve and inspire future generations.” DEBRA BALL
Director of People & Talent, Toledo Museum of Art
2445 Monroe Street Toledo, Ohio USA 43620 toledomuseum.org
On the Cover: Louisa Peterson, Former Studio Programs Intern Below: Tanya Pattison, Brian P. Kennedy Leadership Fellow