Jessica M. Kennedy

Jessica M. Kennedy is the Educator, Adult Learning and Access for All Program Director at the Saint Louis Art Museum. She has managed public programs, cultivated community and institutional partnerships, supported grant-funded initiatives, and collaborated across departments to advance visitor engagement. Previously, Jessica managed public programs at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art and supported student programs at the Dallas Museum of Art. Drawing on her background in art history, history, and museum studies, as well as her 15+ years of experience in art museums, she brings a conscientious, audience-centered approach to museum education and public programming.

Jessica M. Kennedy spoke at the Creative Museums Summit 2026 :

Babies, Dogs, Laughs and Lessons

Educators from the Saint Louis Art Museum will share how a grant-funded initiative became a testing ground for playful, audience-centered programs designed to welcome visitors who may not traditionally see the Museum as a place for them. Through four case studies—Baby & Me, Gallery Laughs, Dog Days of Summer, and University Day—participants will explore how to identify audience needs, build authentic community partnerships, evaluate programs in real time, and adapt when things don’t go as planned. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for designing bold, responsive programs that reduce barriers, deepen engagement, and create lasting connections.