Nora Semel
About Nora Semel
Nora Semel serves as the Director of Programming at the Obama Presidential Center, bringing extensive experience in arts and communications from her previous roles at institutions such as the University of Chicago and the Guggenheim Museum.
Current Role at Obama Foundation
Nora Semel serves as the Director of Programming at the Obama Presidential Center, a position she has held since 2023. In this role, she is responsible for developing and overseeing programming initiatives that align with the foundation's mission. Her work focuses on engaging the community and promoting cultural experiences that reflect the values of the Obama Foundation.
Previous Experience in Arts and Communications
Nora Semel has extensive experience in arts and communications. She worked at the University of Chicago as the Director of Communications, Arts & Visitor Experience from 2014 to 2016, and later as the Director of External Relations for UChicago Arts & the Logan Center from 2016 to 2017. Her tenure at the Guggenheim Museum included roles as External Affairs Manager and Associate Director of External Affairs, where she managed global projects and special cultural experiences.
Educational Background and Certifications
Nora Semel holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, completed between 1997 and 2002. She also studied at Northwestern University, earning a certificate from 2003 to 2006, and obtained a certificate from the University of Chicago from 2015 to 2020. Additionally, she holds professional certificates in integrated marketing & communications and museum studies.
Career in Marketing and Programming
Nora Semel has a solid background in marketing and programming, having worked at Apple as the Senior Head of Cultural Programming for the Americas from 2020 to 2023. In this role, she oversaw the implementation of cultural experiences at Apple's flagship locations and online. Her earlier experience includes positions at Feldman & Associates and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, where she managed various marketing projects.
Passion for Arts and Culture
Nora Semel champions artists and creatives behind-the-scenes, reflecting her commitment to the arts and culture sector. Her work at various institutions has focused on enhancing visitor experiences and promoting cultural initiatives. She has managed significant projects at the Guggenheim Museum, including YouTube Play: A Biennial of Creative Video and the BMW Guggenheim Lab.