Lynda: You mentioned growth, and we just happen to have a strategic plan that is called PEM FORWARD. The plan has just been approved. What aspects are you most excited about?

Jen: I'm so proud of the work that was done to get to this place with this strategic plan. It was a lot of hard work and a lot of deep thinking on what makes PEM what it is and what makes it special. All of that developed into a plan for four years that will give us a roadmap to not being just an art museum, but being a place for human-centered connection and creativity. By focusing our plan on that aspect of our museum, we are differentiating ourselves from other museums in the area, and actually, nationally and globally. For me, that human-centered piece is what makes PEM special, rooted in our maritime history and the founders’ spirit of exploration. We've been able to, through this new strategic plan, really tie back to our history, but also look toward the future to reconnect with our audiences and build on that strong history of creativity and curiosity.

Jen: I'm really excited for our partnership. In my first job out of college, when I was 22 years old, I was fortunate enough to work at a law firm in a department where three out of the five key partners were women. They were great role models for me in the short time I was there. I just assumed that was the way things would be in life and in my career. As I traversed my career, I found that that was not always the case. I think we as women typically have different leadership styles than men, but have equally powerful and strong leadership, and I'm looking forward to that partnership together. It's an exciting opportunity.

Lynda: We're going to be just great together. You've had a long engagement with the board, but I know you've also had more of a personal connection with the museum. I'm hoping that by now you've got a favorite object or favorite space in the museum?

Jen: I've been coming to the museum since I was a child growing up on the North Shore. My dad brought me to the maritime exhibitions. Then, as a mom, when I brought my own children here, I really felt a connection with the Art & Nature Center and the ability for my kids to be hands-on and interacting with the exhibitions. The thing I love about PEM is that it changes, and that one object is not going to be what I'm going to come back for every time. I'm coming back for the changing exhibitions, the multidisciplinary interaction and the things that challenge me creatively and intellectually. For me, I enjoy the fact that the museum is different every time I come.