North Cook News

The Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University has announced the addition of four new members to its Board of Advisors and changes in leadership roles for the upcoming years.

Joining the Board this fall are Julie Johnson Peterson, Isaac Alpert, Mary Lu Roffe, and Jack Ludden. The Board of Advisors is appointed by the executive director and supports the museum’s strategy, collection development, audience engagement, and educational initiatives. Members also contribute through philanthropy, mentorship, and serving as ambassadors for the museum’s mission.

“We are delighted to welcome our four new members to the Board of Advisors,” said Lisa Corrin, Ellen Philips Katz Executive Director. “Each brings a wealth of experience spanning journalism, performing arts, media, and the contemporary art market, and each has deep connections to Northwestern.”

Kim Allen-Niesen has taken on a new role as chair of The Block’s Collection Council. This group helps support growth and accessibility for the museum’s collection through shared learning and philanthropy. As chair, Allen-Niesen will represent the collection to the Board of Advisors and work with staff on Council priorities.

In Fall 2026, Mary Baglivo and Martha Tedeschi will become co-chairs of the Board of Advisors. Baglivo brings extensive experience in marketing and communications from both corporate advertising firms and higher education. Tedeschi is recognized for her work as a curator and leader in academic museums.

“We are so fortunate to benefit from the leadership of these remarkable individuals,” Corrin said. “Kim Allen-Niesen brings creativity and insight to her role as chair of the Collection Council, strengthening the connection between our Board and the museum’s growing collection. Our new co-chairs, Mary Baglivo and Martha Tedeschi, each bring expertise recognized on a national level—Mary as a leader in communications and strategy, and Martha as a scholar and museum professional whose work has shaped major cultural institutions. Their guidance will advance The Block’s role as a site of teaching and research within the university.”

The museum also expressed appreciation for outgoing board co-chairs Cheryl Johnson-Odim and Stuart H. Bohart who have led since 2021 during a period marked by growth in collections, programs, and partnerships.

“Cheryl and Stu’s leadership has been transformative,” Corrin stated. “They have strengthened The Block’s role as an integral part of Northwestern University and as a vital resource for student experience. Their vision and commitment were central to the development of our new mission and strategic plan, and they have nurtured a spirit of collaboration and care that will continue to shape the museum’s future. We are profoundly grateful for their service.”

Both Johnson-Odim and Bohart will remain on the board.

The newly appointed board members bring varied backgrounds: Peterson has worked in journalism including producing an Emmy-winning documentary; Alpert manages artist estates at P·P·O·W; Roffe is an experienced Broadway producer; Ludden specializes in innovation strategies for cultural organizations.

Allen-Niesen leads tours at Los Angeles County Museum of Art focused on social justice themes after an earlier career in law; Baglivo serves on several corporate boards following executive roles at advertising agencies; Tedeschi previously directed Harvard Art Museums before joining The Block Museum's advisory board.