Women in Business: Jill Wagar
by June 19, 2023 9:29 am 1,308 views
Photo by Ironside Photography / Stephen Ironside.
Residence: Bentonville
Education: B.S., marketing and public relations, Oklahoma State University
Professional background: Wagar’s executive career spans more than 25 years in the medical services, higher education and cultural arts sectors. She was “at the table” when Alice Walton shared her vision for Crystal Bridges and is one of the museum’s founding executive team members, initially director of development and then chief strategy officer. Before that, she was executive director of the NorthWest Arkansas Community College Foundation (2005-2011) and director of public affairs and development of the Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital in Bethany, Okla. (1996-2005).
What is the most fulfilling part of your work? I’ve worked in nonprofits my entire career. Working toward a mission fuels me and makes me excited to go to work each day. At Crystal Bridges, I am energized by the transformative power of art and the ways it impacts individuals’ lives from every background.
Art gives you whatever you need — joy, solace, inspiration, reflection, perspective. Whether you’re an art novice or connoisseur, spend time sitting in front of a work of art you love or find challenging and see what it reveals to you. Anyone who wants to explore more can call me at Crystal Bridges; I would be honored to introduce you to art or help you see art in a new way.
What do you think of the opportunities that exist for women in business compared with when you started? Today, there is a much greater recognition of the value that diversity, including gender, brings to businesses. Organizations are striving to create inclusive environments and foster diversity, realizing that diverse teams lead to better innovation and performance.
There are more executive women in the workplace that serve as role models and mentors to younger female professionals. And, as a whole, organizations are becoming more flexible to support working women and men with child or elder care responsibilities.
What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry? Find the people who will support and cheer you in every way possible, both in the workplace and at home. I’ve had several mentors, none greater than Sandy Edwards, who created paths for me and invested in my growth each step of the way. I owe much of my success to professionals like Sandy.
On the home front, my career growth would not have been possible without my husband, Travis, who played tag team with me — often leading the way — while we raised our children. Whether it’s a spouse, neighbor, friend, family member or nanny, find someone you can rely upon on a moment’s notice and for the long-term.
What is something distinctive that people would be surprised to know about you? I’m an introvert, an extroverted introvert. I love being around people and deeply value relationships. And I greatly relish in quiet downtime to rest, reflect and recharge. After a long week, I am happy as can be to putter around the house over the weekend without seeing anyone but my husband and dog (a very cute 80-pound Sheepadoodle who loves to cuddle). Don’t get me wrong. I also crave thoughtful communication and deep discussions with those close to me; their relationships bring great joy.
What’s the most recent book you’ve read? Since the new year began, I’ve been reading autobiographies and memoirs. They provide fascinating insights about others’ lived experiences that expand my understanding. A few recent reads: Viola Davis, Prince Harry, Jaycee Dugard, Matthew McConaughey, Michelle Obama, Betty White, Tina Fey, Anderson Cooper, Sally Field. Always open to suggestions!
What do you do to relax when not working? Water seems to do the trick: pool, bathtub or ocean. Travis and I are proud of our kids, ages 24 and 20, and also very happy being empty nesters. We are grateful to be best friends and love traveling to places we haven’t been before looking for adventure, great food, wine and bourbon.
What habits or traits do you feel are most important for leaders to have? I have benefited from tremendous leaders — Rod Bigelow, for one — who appreciate, empower, trust, challenge and value me each day. These attributes paired with empathy create a leadership superpower I seek to emulate daily. Understanding the unique skills and traits that each colleague brings to work allows me to interact individually with care, while also providing clear expectations to enable collective goals to be achieved.