A Legacy Comes Full Circle

Like so many others who grew up in Toronto, Emma Jenkin holds a special place in her heart for the ROM. From weekend visits with her parents to school field trips to summer camps, the Museum was a big part of her youth.  

“The ROM was always an adventure,” says Emma. “It felt like home, but at the same time offered something new and exciting – new ways to understand the human history and nature.”

Emma’s relationship with the ROM continued to evolve over the years. As a graduate student in art history and curatorial studies, she interned in the Museum’s Gallery of Canada, researching the historic relationship between Canadian artists and patrons. For a lifelong supporter, it was like being a kid in a candy store.

Today, Emma still loves visiting the ROM. And now as a parent, she enjoys watching her own children explore and experience the museum in the same ways that she once did.

It was her children that inspired Emma to make a planned gift. Last year, she decided to make a will to protect their future. As she considered her priorities, she immediately thought of the ROM as a place where she could establish a legacy.

“I always imagined leaving a gift in my will, but figured it was something you do when you’re much older,” says Emma. “Once I started to write my will, it just clicked in my head that this is a commitment I can make today.”

In January, Emma informed the ROM of her bequest intention which, when fully realized, will provide unrestricted funds to support the most urgent needs and ensure the Museum continues to provide visitors with enriching experiences of art, culture and nature for generations to come.

After putting her commitment to paper, Emma feels more connected to the ROM than ever. By making a planned gift, she also became a member of the Currelly Legacy Society, which recognizes those who have advised the Museum of a future estate gift.

“The ROM was full of amazing memories as a child,” explains Emma. “I’m proud that my gift will help give more children a chance to make their own discoveries at the Museum, and walk away a little bit more inspired by the world.”