Her Story
About Janna
Janna Singer-Baefsky is the Digital Asset Manager and Digital Archivist for the Office of Marketing and Communications at the University of Maryland, College Park. In this role for the past two years, she ed the implementation of a digital asset management system for creative assets including photography, design, and video. Much of this work includes creating metadata structures and file-naming conventions to standardize organization and maximize searchability for asset distribution in social media, print, and other communications. With nine years of experience in digital asset management and archival work, Janna previously held positions at the Center for Brooklyn History, David Zwirner Gallery, and Marquee Brands, where she supported Martha Stewart's brand. She earned her undergraduate degree in art history from Smith College and holds an MS in Library Information Sciences from the Pratt Institute School of Information and an MA in art history from CUNY Hunter College. Janna is an active member of the DAM community, having attended DAM New York for three years, serving as a panelist in 2025.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Janna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I am really lucky to have come from a very supportive family. My parents and my sisters are my biggest cheerleaders. The sense I had growing up was that it's fine if you fail. I'm also really lucky in that I have an amazing, diverse friend group across multiple backgrounds. Their research and life experiences, and our friendships have really informed the way in which I approach work and people. I'm a firm believer in not just biological family, but chosen family.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be confident in the fact that you are the subject matter expert in your field. Oftentimes you are going to be a department of one or the only woman in the room. Confident women are often misrepresented as being bitchy, emotional, or difficult. Do not diminish yourself or your knowledge because people doubt you or question your expertise. Remember, well-behaved women seldom make history.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Boundaries, especially work-life boundaries. No is a complete sentence.
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