TOLEDO, OH.- Michael Deetsch has been named the Emma Leah Bippus director of education and engagement by the Toledo Museum of Art.

Deetsch joined the staff as assistant director of education in 2013 and became interim director of education when his predecessor, Kathy Danko-McGhee, left to devote full time to educational research.

“As interim director Mike demonstrated solid leadership ability, management skills and able curriculum development and innovation. We did not need to look elsewhere to find a talented professional to take on this important role because we have just such an individual in Mike,” said Museum Director Brian Kennedy. “We are delighted he has agreed to lead education on a permanent basis.”

In his new role, Deetsch is a key member of the Museum’s executive team, leading educational and programming initiatives across the Museum. He is responsible for curriculum development for all audiences, outreach, exhibition interpretive material and management of the docent program as well as conceptualizing innovative public programming. He oversees a strong, motivated education staff and a highly engaged TMA docent corps responsible for developing visual literacy initiatives and partnering to create opportunities for visual literacy education and awareness. He also works closely with the Museum’s director, associate director, curatorial, finance, development and marketing departments.

Prior to joining the TMA staff, Deetsch served as a senior museum educator at the Brooklyn Museum, the exhibition and programs director at the Lexington Art League and the student programs manager at the Kentucky Historical Society.

Deetsch received his master’s degree in art education from the Pratt Institute and a bachelor’s degree in art history from Hanover College. He was chosen in 2011 to participate in the Getty Leadership Institute's "Museum Leaders: the Next Generation." He lives in West Toledo with his wife, Emily, and the couple’s two children.