Angela Cassie

Angela Cassie. Angela Cassie is a prominent Canadian cultural executive and museum leader known for her strategic roles at major national institutions. She has held senior positions at the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, where her work has focused on public engagement, Indigenous reconciliation, and organizational transformation. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to fostering inclusive narratives and broadening access to Canadian art and human rights discourse.

Early life and education

Angela Cassie was raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, within a family that valued community involvement and the arts. She pursued her post-secondary education in her home province, attending the University of Winnipeg before completing a degree at the University of Manitoba. Her academic background provided a foundation in communications and public engagement, which would later inform her approach to cultural leadership and institutional strategy within the museum sector in Canada.

Career

Cassie's professional career began in communications and public affairs, where she developed expertise in stakeholder relations and strategic messaging. She held significant roles within the Government of Manitoba and various cultural organizations, building a reputation for effective management and visionary planning. This experience led to her appointment as Vice-President of Public Affairs and Programs at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, where she played a key role in shaping the museum's public profile and educational outreach following its opening. Her work there involved collaborating with groups like the Assembly of First Nations and Parks Canada.

National Gallery of Canada leadership

In 2017, Angela Cassie joined the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa as its Chief of Communications, Public Affairs and Digital. She was later promoted to Vice-President of Communications, Marketing and Visitor Experience, becoming a key member of the executive team under Director Sasha Suda. During her tenure, Cassie oversaw major initiatives to revitalize the Gallery's public engagement, including the reinstallation of the Canadian and Indigenous Art collection and the development of groundbreaking exhibitions. She was instrumental in advancing the Gallery's commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, working to integrate more works by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists into the national narrative.

Advocacy and public engagement

Beyond institutional management, Cassie is a recognized advocate for the role of museums as agents of social change and dialogue. She has frequently spoken on panels for organizations like the Canadian Museums Association and at events such as the Ottawa International Writers Festival about accessibility, digital transformation, and ethical storytelling. Her advocacy emphasizes partnership with Indigenous communities, addressing historical omissions in collections, and using platforms like the National Gallery of Canada to foster conversations on issues ranging from colonialism to contemporary Canadian identity. This work aligns with broader national efforts reflected in policies like the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Personal life

Angela Cassie maintains a strong connection to Winnipeg, where she is based with her family. She is known to be an avid supporter of the Winnipeg Arts Council and various local cultural initiatives. Her personal interests include Canadian literature and contemporary art, passions that complement her professional dedication to the cultural sector. Cassie continues to be a influential voice in discussions about the future of Canada's national museums and their public mission.

Category:Canadian museum directors Category:People from Winnipeg Category:Year of birth missing (living people)