The California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM) has appointed Jessica Tade as its new executive director.
In her new role, Tade will provide strategic leadership as she guides the museum through its next phase of growth and impact.
“We are thrilled that Jessica will be bringing her vast experience and leadership to the California Nature Art Museum as we begin the next chapter of our storied history,” said Kevin Patterson, CalNAM Board president.
“Her vision and creativity will continue to grow the museum’s impact, deepen our connection with the community, and inspire greater appreciation for the intersection of art and the natural world,” Patterson said. “We are confident that under her leadership, CalNAM will reach new heights and build on its legacy as a vibrant cultural and educational resource.”
Tade is a Santa Barbara County museum and nonprofit leader who for more than a decade has given her time, talent, and professional development to organizations providing access and opportunity to the community, CalNAM said.
She has served as the deputy director of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and executive director of Casa del Herrero, a historic house museum and gardens in Montecito. She has also served as the director of marketing and communications for the Santa Barbara City College Foundation and the Santa Barbara Foundation.
Passionate about supporting her community, Tade said she is always looking for ways to give back. She currently serves on the California Association of Museums Program Committee and is a board member for the Solvang School Education Foundation.
She previously served as a Third District commissioner for the Historic Landmarks Advisory Commission of Santa Barbara County, as a board member for the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation and Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People, and as a Third District commissioner on the Santa Barbara County Human Services Commission.
Tade is a three-time graduate of the UC Santa Barbara, where she received a Ph.D in art history, specializing in Romanesque architecture and sculpture.
While at UCSB, she received the Outstanding Educator Award, Art Affiliates Most Outstanding Art History Writing Award, and the Department of History of Art and Architecture Academic Excellence Award.
“Art has the power to deepen our connection to the natural world,” Tade said. “I’m honored to join this extraordinary museum and to work with our community to celebrate creativity, inspire environmental stewardship, and expand access to the beauty and meaning found in nature.”
For more about California Nature Art Museum visit calnatureartmuseum.org.