The New Children’s Museum.
Just like the children it serves, The New Children’s Museum is growing and flourishing in so many ways. This summer the Museum welcomed seasoned development professionals Erin Decker and Jane Rice. The duo joins the leadership team as the Museum plans for its 10th anniversary celebration and embarks on a bold five-year vision beginning 2018. Their exceptional expertise in philanthropy and stewardship are critical components as the Museum seeks to build capacity and expand its reach to the community with enhancements in exhibitions, education and programming.
Erin Decker joins the Museum as Vice President of Development, after more than a decade in non-profit arts fundraising. Most recently, she was the Senior Associate Director of Development at the La Jolla Playhouse. She serves on the Steering Committee of the San Diego Regional Arts and Culture Coalition and sings with the San Diego Master Chorale. “My career has been devoted to enhancing lives and educating the public through the arts, and I look forward to continuing that work at this innovative, vital organization,” Decker said.
Jane Rice joins the Museum as Vice President of Advancement, after a long career in the arts in both New York and San Diego. Rice spent the last eight years as Director of Special Donor Projects and Centennial Campaign Director at the San Diego Symphony, with prior positions held at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, San Diego Museum of Art, Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. “I am delighted to join The New Children’s Museum, a place that combines my passions for children’s education and contemporary art.” Rice has been honored with Director of Institutional Advancement Emeritus titles at the San Diego Symphony and Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
Decker and Rice join the Museum at a time of record growth. The Museum’s unique approach of collaborating with contemporary artists to create room-sized interactive installations is resonating with locals and tourists alike. Admissions are up 40% over last year. “The kind of growth we have experienced over the past couple of years requires stellar leadership with a strong vision for the future,” Judy Forrester, CEO and Executive Director shared with Giving Back Magazine. “With their demonstrated success in San Diego and beyond, Erin and Jane complement our talented senior team as we prepare for continued growth.”
Museum Board Chair Tiffany Archer is thrilled with the leadership additions. “Erin and Jane have strong connections in San Diego and the proven ability to generate support for arts institutions,” Archer said. “I am truly excited for what the future holds as we continue to grow and expand our ability to create a lasting impact in the lives of children in our community and beyond.”
Heading into the fall with a flourish, the Museum will hold two exceptional events. Their annual benefit titled Studio 200 on Island, will be held October 14 and features three decade-themed dance clubs within the Museum’s multi-level space. This year the Museum will also host a speakeasy-themed after party (be sure to discover the password!). The following week the Museum hosts one of the La Jolla Playhouse’s immersive and site-based performances during the Without Walls (WOW) Festival, taking place downtown this year.
