Jennie Highfield is the President and CEO of National First Ladies’ Library (NFLL), the founding organization of First Ladies National Historic Site. National First Ladies’ Library seeks to be the foremost repository of scholarly research and information and a leader in education about the First Ladies of the USA.
Since joining National First Ladies’ Library in January of 2018, Highfield has led efforts to increase NFLL’s presence, improve the archives and collections, solidify thriving partnerships, increase programs, and expand resources for visitors to the historic site. Professionally, Highfield is actively involved as a member of the Ohio Museum Association and the American Association for State & Local History where she takes an active interest in promoting museum advocacy efforts at all levels of government.
Highfield has nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Before joining NFLL, Highfield worked in numerous roles within arts and culture organizations. She started with roles in exhibits and archival research, then worked in fund development, marketing and communication, and public programs. Highfield is actively involved in the local community and throughout the northeast Ohio region, supporting several different organizations and initiatives. She supports nonprofits who work in the areas of animal rescue, social services, children advocacy, and arts and culture. She has held board and committee positions to support fundraising, strategic planning, board development, and more.
An Ohio native, she graduated from the University of Akron with a Bachelor of Arts in Art History, and a Master’s in Art History from Kent State University.