The Peale Announces New Advisory Board
The Peale, Baltimore’s Community Museum, is proud to announce the formation of a new Advisory Board—an engaged group of leaders, thinkers, and practitioners who will help guide the museum’s next chapter of community-centered storytelling, creative programming, and civic engagement.
The Advisory Board is designed to complement the work of The Peale’s Board of Directors by providing strategic advice, subject-matter expertise, and ongoing dialogue with staff—particularly around programs, partnerships, and emerging opportunities. Members are invited based on their active engagement with The Peale’s mission and their willingness to contribute insight, experience, and perspective to the museum’s evolving work.
As The Peale continues to expand its role as a platform for community-led exhibits, artist programs, public art, educational initiatives, and experimental digital storytelling, the Advisory Board will serve as a sounding board and thought partner—helping ensure that our work remains responsive, inclusive, and deeply connected to Baltimore.
Welcoming Our Advisory Board Members
We are honored to welcome the following individuals as founding members of The Peale’s Advisory Board:
- Kelley Bell – Associate Professor, Department of Visual Arts, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
An artist, educator, and curator whose work bridges contemporary art, public engagement, and critical social practice. - Johns Hopkins – Executive Director, Baltimore Heritage
A leader in historic preservation and public history, bringing deep knowledge of Baltimore’s built environment and community advocacy. - Lee Kappelman – Co-Founder & Board Chair, CaringOn
A longtime Baltimore resident and nonprofit leader with expertise in governance, organizational development, and mission-driven leadership. - Allison McElheny – Senior Associate / Senior Architect, Quinn Evans
An architect specializing in preservation, adaptive reuse, and civic-focused design, with strong alignment to The Peale’s architectural and urban storytelling initiatives.
- Elgin L. Klugh – Professor and Chairperson; Coordinator for Social Sciences and Anthropology, Coppin State University
An academic leader with deep expertise in social sciences, anthropology, and community-engaged scholarship in Baltimore. - Ron Masotta – Principal, SMP Architects
The Peale’s project architect, offering continuity, institutional knowledge, and strategic guidance around facilities, planning, and long-term vision. Crickett Woloson – Director, Elbow Fund
A longtime supporter of The Peale with deep institutional memory, transitioning from board service to continued engagement through the Advisory Board.
Looking Ahead
The creation of the Advisory Board reflects The Peale’s commitment to collaboration, transparency, and shared leadership. Advisory members will engage with staff on program development, partnerships, and strategic thinking—helping the museum remain a dynamic civic space that reflects the voices, creativity, and histories of Baltimore. We are grateful for their willingness to lend their time, insight, and energy, and we look forward to the ideas and collaborations ahead.


