Transformed Headline: Victoria (Tokarowski) Reisman '07 Ascends from Student to State Curator Position
In the world of museums and historic sites, Victoria (Tokarowski) Reisman '07 has made a significant impact. Currently serving as a curator at the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation's Bureau of Historic Sites at Peebles Island Resource Center, Reisman's career path is a testament to her passion for history and art.
Reisman's journey began at Lehigh University, where she majored in design arts with a minor in art history and a concentration in museum studies. It was during her time at Lehigh that she took a museum studies course with Ricardo Viera, then the director of the Lehigh University Art Galleries (LUAG). Viera, who once said, "You can't reinvent the wheel, but you can paint it a different color," encouraged Reisman to pursue museum studies.
After graduating from Lehigh, Reisman furthered her education by earning a master's degree in museum studies from the University of Sydney in Australia. This international experience broadened her perspective and prepared her for the challenges ahead.
Reisman's first major role in the museum world was at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, where she previously served as curator. During her tenure, she produced 21 special exhibitions, including a grant-funded gallery to highlight trophies from the collection and a nationwide juried photography exhibition.
Reisman's career in museum work allows her to discover and learn new things every day. Despite no longer working directly in the graphic design profession, her career remains visually-oriented. She still uses her graphic design skills to lay out the appearance of galleries, ensuring they are engaging and informative for visitors.
In addition to creating exhibitions, Reisman also assists independent researchers looking for historic information. At Peebles Island Resource Center, she works with historic sites and parks across the state to create exhibitions that educate and engage the public.
While information about Ricardo Viera's current professional role after serving as director of LUAG is not readily available, his encouragement played a pivotal role in Reisman's career. His words of wisdom continue to inspire her as she continues to make her mark in the museum world, painting wheels with new colors and stories.