Jeanie, a first-generation American born in Washington, D.C., to Dominican parents, grew up with a profound appreciation for people, history, and culture. Fluent in Spanish, she brings a rich, multicultural perspective to her work. Frequent visits to the Smithsonian Institution, home to over 154 million artifacts, fueled her love of storytelling and understanding the human experience. It was in these halls that Jeanie’s curiosity and sense of purpose first took root.
After relocating to Florida, her commitment to community outreach only deepened. She founded organizations dedicated to uplifting underserved communities and, alongside her husband, launched a groundbreaking initiative to provide housing solutions for the homeless, offering individuals not just shelter but the tools to rebuild their lives with dignity.
A brief trip to Kansas City changed everything. The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant community drew her in, evoking memories of her previous homes in D.C. and Florida. Inspired by Kansas City’s potential and opportunities, she moved there with her husband and two teenage sons, ready to start a new chapter.
Jeanie’s passion for museums led her to pursue a career that combined her love for history, culture, and community engagement. Now, as a Visitor Experience Associate at the Kansas City Museum, she brings decades of experience from both the nonprofit and public sectors, driven by her desire to empower others and create meaningful connections. For Jeanie, museums are not just places of learning—they are transformative spaces where history, culture, and community intersect.
With integrity, respect, empathy, and a fluency in Spanish, Jeanie is able to connect with Kansas City’s culturally rich and varied communities, enriching her ability to serve the public through her work at the museum.
