About Jenenne Whitfield

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Jenenne Whitfield’s journey to becoming an experienced and highly sought-after arts executive was one marked by passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community empowerment.

With a background in banking, Jenenne’s transition to the world of arts leadership came in 1993 when she assumed the role of President of the Heidelberg Project in Detroit, MI.  Here, she strategically crafted the organizational structure, cultivated strong community relationships, and navigated complex political landscapes, transforming the project into one of the most influential art environments in the world.

During her 29-year tenure at The Heidelberg Project, Jenenne’s leadership was instrumental in securing substantial financial support and developing world-class programs and events, elevating the organization’s global acclaim. Her achievements garnered numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the City of Detroit and Best Cultural Activation from Leading Culture Destinations – an organization dubbed by The New York Times as ‘the Oscars of the museum world.’ Her work with the Heidelberg Project spanned cities and countries across six continents.

In 2022, Jenenne was recruited to serve as the Executive Director at the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, further solidifying her reputation as a visionary leader in the nonprofit arts sector. Despite a brief tenure, she left an indelible mark by forging strategic partnerships and strengthening the museum’s connections within the local and national arts community.

Today, Jenenne serves as a holistic coach and art consultant, currently under contract with MCB Real Estate as its Director of The Harbor Place Experience in Baltimore, Maryland. She attended Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, and has lectured and taught classes on Art as a Social Practice and Creative Placemaking. Jenenne directed and compiled a series of lectures in an award-winning book, Connecting the Dots: Tyree Guyton’s Heidelberg Project, and authored a celebrated children’s book on the life of Tyree Guyton, founder of the Heidelberg Project.

Jenenne is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and a Licensed Minister of Divine Metaphysics. She is also a mentor to the next generation of thought leaders and activists, and serves on the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee for Mayor Brandon M. Scott.