The Temertys – Two of the ROM’s Greatest Ambassadors

Louise and James Temerty

Avid museum-goers, James and Louise Temerty discovered the ROM when they moved to Toronto from Montreal over 35 years ago. When the opportunity came along in 1998 for Jim to volunteer on the ROM Board of Governors, he jumped at the chance. Since then, the Temertys have become two of the Museum’s greatest ambassadors who generously give their time and energy to make the ROM a better and more welcoming place.

As Chair of the ROM Board of Governors, Jim led the Museum through one of the most successful cultural fundraising campaigns in Canadian history. He and Louise have supported numerous galleries, exhibitions and events over the years, inspiring others to give and attracting new communities, supporters and volunteers to the Museum.

“This is a place where the various communities of Toronto can feel at home,” says Jim. “In so many cases they can see their own culture reflected in the galleries and the exhibitions while at the same time they can appreciate new cultures.” Louise agrees; “We want the ROM to reflect the multicultural society of Canada. And reach them, too.” 

James and Louise remain deeply connected with the ROM. They are members of the Currelly Society and dedicated annual supporters of the Royal Patrons Circle (RPC). The ROM proudly named the James and Louise Temerty Galleries of the Age of Dinosaurs in recognition of their tremendous volunteer leadership and generosity during the Renaissance ROM Campaign. Most recently, they graciously supported the ROM’s blockbuster show Ultimate Dinosaurs: Giants from Gondwana, the biggest and best dinosaur exhibition ever mounted in Canada, as Exhibit Patrons.