Linda Thompson. Courtesy Meijer Gardens
Editor’s note: Each Q&A in the Influential Women enewsletter will feature a woman from the region who’s influential, a rising face in her industry or doing interesting work. Submit tips on potential Q&A subjects to tgortsema at grbj dot com.
Linda Thompson — director of education at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park — has worked as a museum/cultural organization educator for 43 years, developing and implementing creative programs that help visitors learn.
During that time, Thompson has given art history presentations, trained docents and classroom teachers, created public programs and curated interactive exhibitions for families, among other work.
Her philosophy is that education must be enjoyable to be effective.
Biggest career break?
My first museum job resulted from a total lucky break! I literally bumped into a museum director who introduced himself and desperate to replace his education director who had resigned that day hired me on the spot.
Proudest moment?
Realizing that both of my daughters had become self-confident, responsible, accomplished, thoughtful and happy human beings
Best advice you’ve ever received?
Everyone is in charge of their own happiness.
How did you make your first dollar?
Working as the clerical assistant in the newborn nursery of a hospital
Most-treasured possession?
Baby grand piano
Dream job?
I’m in my dream job right here at Meijer Gardens.
If I were president for a day, I would…?
Initiate infrastructure programs in every city in the country
Last book you’ve read?
“The Boston Girl,” by Anita Diamont
Last thing you googled?
Cities in China
Your worst habit?
Procrastination
To unwind, I like to…?
Read
Dream vacation?
Two weeks in New York, filled with restaurants, museums and a different Broadway performance every day
Favorite food?
Pecan pie
Person you most admire?
Michelle Obama