09/02/2026
We’re excited to introduce Jessimi Jones as the Dayton Art Institute’s next Director & President!
Born and raised in Ohio, Jessimi has spent nearly two decades in the museum field, with the first 18 years of her career focused on education and community engagement. That experience shaped her belief that museums are at their best when they are filled with people, ideas, questions and different perspectives about art. Most recently, she served as Executive Director of the Springfield Museum of Art, where she helped shape the museum around the idea that "Art Belongs to All People."
Jessimi was first drawn to DAI’s history and legacy, but what stood out to her throughout the process was the people who care deeply about this museum and the pride the Dayton community has in it.
As she begins her time at DAI, Jessimi’s first priority is simple: listen and learn. She wants to get to know our staff, spend time with the collection and get out into Dayton to hear from the people we serve about what they hope for the museum’s future.
“I want people to feel that they belong at DAI, and equally importantly, that DAI belongs to them and to this community.”
Please help us give Jessimi a warm DAI welcome!
