The summer season always brings lively events and fun activities to the Skirball. This month's Skirballer Spotlight is someone who ensures that each special event is one that all attendees will remember. Erika Insauste, Senior Banquet Manager at the Skirball, has been with us for nineteen years and shared with us what has made her Skirball experience so meaningful.

Q: Tell us about a past or present exhibition that you enjoyed and why.

A: The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited has been my favorite exhibition by far. I learned English watching PBS programming, most notably Sesame Street, so seeing the characters in person and learning about their creators was deeply meaningful. The exhibition gave me a space to reflect on my childhood, appreciate how far I've come, and quietly say, "Thank you."

Q: Describe a Skirball event you had the opportunity to attend. What made it special for you?

A: After the Skirball procured the Common Ground exhibition, various kitchen and catering staff from immigrant backgrounds were invited to share their favorite recipes from back home and attend the dinner. It was fantastic hearing everyone share their stories about what made the dish special to them and then enjoying it together. It surprised us all to be invited to use the dishware, but it was a beautiful event that showcased some of the hardest working people at the Skirball.

Q: What's one activity you prioritize outside of the Skirball? How does it interact with the work you do here?

A: I prioritize a night out with friends to celebrate life. Experiencing thoughtful hospitality from a guest's perspective reminds me how meaningful exceptional service can be. As a Senior Banquet Manager, those experiences reinforce my commitment to leading a team that creates memorable moments and delivers the level of care everyone attending an event at the Skirball deserves.

Q: Tell us about a coworker who has gone above and beyond to represent the Skirball in their work.

A: One of the first people I met when I arrived to fill out new hire paperwork was none other than Candice Crawford, our Director of Visitor Experience. She was working at the front desk and greeted me with the biggest and warmest smile and quite literally said, "Welcome to the Skirball!" That fist impression stayed with me. Later, when I worked as the the Admin Assistant for HPE, I had the opportunity to see her interact with guests and colleagues every day. I admired the way she took the time to learn people's names, remembered personal details, and made everyone feel seen and valued. Candice's kindness and emotional intelligence embody the welcoming culture that makes the Skirball so special.

Q: What are you looking forward to learning more about yourself in the following year?

A: I am looking forward to learning more about the kind of leader I can become. I want to continue growing my ability to lead with empathy, stay calm under pressure, and create an environment where my team feels supported and empowered to deliver their best always.

Q: Anything else you'd like to share?

I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunities Skirball has given me and for empowering me to make a positive impact on others. What truly sets the Skirball apart is its culture and the people who bring it to life every day. It's no surprise that so many have tenures of over ten years here. My hope is that those who continue to nurture this culture always feel valued, supported, and inspired to keep doing the meaningful work that makes the Skirball so special.

We are grateful for our community member, Erika.

Our institution is more than just a workplace—it's a community where each team member plays a vital role in bringing the Skirball's mission and values to life, and creating memorable experiences for all who walk through our doors. As a loving tribute to our original benefactors, Jack and Audrey Skirball, and because of the Skirballs' dedication to education and cultural exchange, we proudly call ourselves "Skirballers."

We regularly spotlight one of these Skirballers, showcasing their unique talents, passions, and contributions to our community. Through these introductions, we invite you to get to know the people who make working here truly something special.