A huge thank you to Rikki Parker, Director of the Children’s Museum of Illinois, for spending time with our CEO students and sharing her unique journey and approach to leadership!

Rikki’s background in cognitive science and law has become an incredible asset in her role leading and managing a fully nonprofit organization. She reminded our students that life is not a straight line and that the skills and experiences we gain along the way can prepare us for opportunities we may never have anticipated.

So many great takeaways from our visit:

• Be prepared and know what you’re talking about.
• Build genuine, authentic relationships.
• Community connections can have a tremendous impact.
• Know your strengths AND your weaknesses.
• Communication is incredibly important.
• A strong reputation matters.
• Being a good steward of donor dollars builds trust.

We also loved hearing the philosophy behind keeping the museum largely technology-free. Rikki explained that children learn first through tactile experiences, then physical activity, and eventually move into higher-level technology. It was a great reminder of the importance of hands-on learning.

Most of all, Rikki’s passion for education, nonprofit work, and the children and families they serve was evident throughout our visit. One of her most powerful points was that some of the biggest advocates for change are our kids themselves.

Thank you, Rikki, for investing your time in our students and for being such an incredible resource and leader in our community! 🧡🖤. Children's Museum of Illinois