Toledo Museum of Art Announces Emily Croak as Chief Development Officer

Daily Dose  |  06/26/2025 2:00 pm

The Toledo Museum of Art has appointed Emily Croak as Chief Development Officer, effective July 1, 2025. Croak brings extensive experience in nonprofit fundraising and strategic planning from her role as Vice President at Aly Sterling Philanthropy, where she helped mission-driven clients across the country raise over $80 million.

"Emily has been an invaluable contributor to our organization, and we're proud to see her take this next step in her career with an institution we are equally passionate about,” said Aly Sterling, President and Founder of Aly Sterling Philanthropy. “We wish her continued success and look forward to maintaining our strong relationship with the Toledo Museum of Art, as well as Emily, for years to come."

During the last seven years, Croak has partnered with nonprofits to lead projects in fundraising, strategic planning, and board governance while managing a national portfolio of clients. Her expertise in innovative and nontraditional fundraising methods helped organizations connect their vision with clear and actionable strategies.

"I'm honored to join the Toledo Museum of Art in this pivotal role," said Croak. "Having served as interim director of development, I've gained a deep appreciation for TMA's exceptional collection, innovative programming, and commitment to making art accessible to all. I look forward to building on the museum's strong foundation as we advance the mission and strengthen our relationships with donors who share our passion for art."

In her new role, Croak will oversee the museum's comprehensive fundraising strategy, including the multi-year "Building on Brilliance" capital campaign designed to reinstall the collection, catalyze the community, and integrate art into the lives of people. She will lead the Museum’s team of development professionals and work closely with the Board of Directors Development Committee to secure contributions from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government sources.

Croak's appointment comes as the Toledo Museum of Art continues to build on its reputation as a model museum. "Emily Croak is poised to make huge contributions both as Chief Development Officer and as a member of our senior leadership team," said Adam Levine, Edward Drummond and Florence Scott Libbey Director & CEO of the Toledo Museum of Art. "Emily brings an entrepreneurial energy and a strategic mindset with strong bias toward action. As our interim Director of Development, she gained a grounded understanding of our mission, vision, values, and culture. Emily’s leadership positions the Museum for strategic growth and sustained success.” 

ABOUT THE TOLEDO MUSEUM OF ART
Recently named the 2025 Best Art Museum in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA) is a beloved cultural institution in Toledo, Ohio, and a global leader in the museum field. Established in 1901, its renowned collection features over 25,000 works, ranging from antiquity to contemporary art, and includes one of the finest collections of glass in the world. Situated on a 40-acre campus, TMA integrates art into people’s lives through its world-class collection, engaging exhibitions, robust educational programs, and community outreach. 

Admission and parking to TMA are always free, welcoming everyone to explore its galleries. The museum is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is closed on Monday, Tuesday, and select holidays. TMA is located at 2445 Monroe St., just one block off I-75, with exit signs posted for easy access. For more information, call 419-255-8000 or visit toledomuseum.org.