Aaron Petersal

Executive Director, Maltz Museum

Education: Bachelor’s degree in psychology, The Ohio State University

How I Approach My Day: Optimistic curiosity

What Success Looks Like to Me: Making a real impact alongside people who care about improving the community. I’ve never believed success happens alone.

What I Look for in a Leader: Someone who can inspire confidence, create momentum and help people feel connected to a larger purpose

Favorite Quote: “Both optimists and pessimists contribute to society. The optimist invents the airplane, the pessimist the parachute.” — George Bernard Shaw

My Leadership Style: I’m collaborative by nature. I like bringing people into the conversation, keeping things moving forward and creating an environment where people feel comfortable contributing ideas.

Outside of Work You’ll Find Me: Usually running, trying a new restaurant or planning my next trip. I also love anything connected to history, storytelling and culture.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: A summer concert at Cain Park Evans Amphitheater

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: Survivor — I’m curious to know how I would do.