Dear BJC Community,

This summer, we're inviting you to help build the next chapter of the Baltimore Jewelry Center. Over the past year, the Board of Directors has been thoughtfully planning for the BJC’s future. After the Board’s Executive Director search in 2025 did not result in the appointment of a new leader, Shane Prada generously extended her tenure, providing stability while the Board continued refining the organization’s long-term vision and future direction.

As this next phase begins, Shane will be stepping down after thirteen years of extraordinary leadership. We are deeply grateful for her vision, dedication, and the remarkable community she helped build. Because of her leadership, and because of the strength of this community, the BJC is well positioned for what comes next.

This summer, we’re launching a campaign to raise $70,000 to support the BJC, and we need your help to get there. We’ll launch this year’s campaign at our Second Annual Bake Sale on July 17, a celebration of creativity, community, and delicious sweet treats. We hope you’ll join us to kick off the summer, connect with fellow supporters, and help launch another exciting chapter for the BJC.

To make your impact even greater, the BJC Board of Directors has pledged a $35,000 challenge gift, matching every new, repeat, or increased donation dollar for dollar.

Whether you make a gift, attend an event, volunteer your time, or share our mission with others, your support helps sustain this creative community. Together, we can continue building on the strong foundation that has been created and ensure the Baltimore Jewelry Center remains a place where artists, students, and makers thrive.

Thank you for believing in the BJC and for helping us build what comes next.

Lydia Martin Maggie Smith

Board President Incoming Board President

Join us on Friday, July 17, from 5 – 8 PM For the official kick-off of our summer fundraiser with our Second Annual Bake Sale!

Members of the BJC community will be filling the benches with homemade cakes, cookies, bars, pastries, and other delicious baked treats, all available for purchase in support of the Baltimore Jewelry Center. Stop by for dessert or pick up something to share, we will have something sweet waiting here for you.

Every purchase directly supports the Baltimore Jewelry Center's exhibitions, educational programs, scholarships, and community initiatives.

Come celebrate the start of our summer fundraiser, connect with the BJC community, and take home something delicious!