Join us for The 2025 Belonging Symposium, a dynamic gathering of thought leaders, artists, and change makers exploring the future of inclusion in museums and cultural spaces. This year’s theme is ADVANCE: Forward-Thinking Strategies for Belonging in Museums: Lessons Learned & Pathways Forward

Over three days, national and international experts will share insights, strategies, and innovations that reimagine museums as places of belonging. From keynote talks to engaging panels, this symposium will challenge ideas, spark dialogue, and inspire action.

Registration is FREE but spots are limited so register today to secure your spot!

Mark your calendar and be part of this important conversation on the evolving role of museums.

This symposium is made possible with the generous support of Lead Sponsor Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP, Sponsor Lehmann-Maupin, and additional support from Destination Toledo.

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.

Residence Inn Toledo Maumee (70 Rooms)

Book your group rate for Belonging Symposium 2025

Your special group rate:

• Residence Inn Toledo Maumee for 149.00 USD per night - Last Day to Book : Monday, March 24, 2025

Homewood Suites Maumee (40 Rooms)

Please call 419.897.0980 to book and reference the Toledo Museum of Art Belonging Symposium

Your special group rate:

• Homewood Suites Maumee for 129.00 USD per night - Last Day to Book : Monday, March 24, 2025

If a booking link has been provided the Booking link is only valid while rooms are still held in the block and prior to the cutoff date. After the cutoff date or at any time rooms are not showing on the booking link, please call the property direct for accurate availability and reference the group block name.

The Belonging Plan at the Toledo Museum of Art is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. This living document outlines our commitment to addressing historical exclusions and creating a welcoming environment for all staff, visitors, and volunteers. By embedding DEAI principles into every facet of our operations, we aim to become a model art museum in the United States. Our plan includes actionable strategies and measurable outcomes, ensuring transparency and accountability as we work towards a more inclusive future. Join us in our journey to make belonging a central part of the museum experience.