The Leonardo da Vinci Museum of North America is built on a belief that curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning can transform lives. Helping bring that vision to life is Deputy Director Gina Caruso, a nationally recognized museum, arts, and education leader whose career has been dedicated to creating meaningful experiences that inspire people of all ages.

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With more than two decades of leadership experience spanning museums, arts organizations, and educational institutions across the country, Gina brings a wealth of expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, organizational development, community engagement, and educational programming. Her career reflects a consistent commitment to building organizations that connect people through creativity, culture, and learning.

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Before joining the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of North America, Gina served as Executive Director of Wharton Arts in New Jersey, one of the region's leading arts education organizations. She also served as Head of The New Amsterdam School in New York City, Executive Director and Deputy Director of Creative Alliance in Baltimore, Director of the Doris Duke Theatre at the Honolulu Museum of Art in Hawaii, and Manager of Public Programs at The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore.

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Throughout her career, Gina has led organizations through periods of growth and transformation, overseeing strategic initiatives, fundraising campaigns, donor relations, audience development, educational programming, community partnerships, and organizational development. Her leadership experience includes managing complex budgets, cultivating philanthropic support, mentoring staff, developing innovative programs, leading strategic planning initiatives, and building strong relationships with community stakeholders. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Gina combines creativity, entrepreneurial thinking, and operational expertise to help organizations thrive.

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What distinguishes Gina's leadership is her belief that museums and educational institutions should be welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds can explore new ideas, develop new skills, and discover new possibilities. Her work has consistently focused on creating programs and experiences that spark curiosity, encourage participation, and strengthen community connections.

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While Gina's professional journey has taken her across the United States, her path ultimately led her to Pueblo for a deeply personal reason: family. Gina relocated to Southern Colorado to be closer to her son and his family, who call Pueblo home. Two of her three grandchildren were born here, and watching them grow up in this community has deepened her appreciation for the region and its people.

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Having spent many years in Baltimore, Gina was immediately struck by the similarities between the two communities. Like Baltimore, Pueblo is a city defined by its resilience, strong sense of identity, rich cultural assets, and close-knit community. Both cities offer far more than outsiders often realize—vibrant arts and cultural experiences, passionate local leaders, and people who take pride in supporting one another and investing in their community's future.

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That connection makes the museum's mission especially meaningful. For Gina, helping build a world-class cultural and educational destination in Pueblo is not simply a professional opportunity—it's a chance to invest in the future of the community her family proudly calls home.

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As Deputy Director, Gina works closely with Founder and President Joe Arrigo to support the museum's long-term growth, strengthen partnerships, expand educational opportunities, cultivate philanthropic support, and build the organizational foundation necessary for lasting success. Her expertise in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, audience engagement, strategic planning, and organizational development helps ensure that the museum can fulfill its mission of igniting curiosity, encouraging exploration, and inspiring creativity for generations to come.

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As the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of North America prepares to welcome visitors from across the region, nation, and world, Gina's leadership will play a vital role in shaping an institution that reflects both international excellence and local pride.

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For Gina, the museum represents something powerful: a place where families learn together, children discover their potential, and communities come together through the shared pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and innovation. And there is no place she would rather help build that future than Pueblo.

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