In her creative research, Professor Toivanen explores personal history and narrative through imagery, objects and installations, often incorporating elements of play and games. She spends her spare time training for her next marathon.
She is also affiliate faculty with UMKC's Center for Digital and Public Humanities.
Foundation Digital Design, Creative Project Development, Senior Seminar and Anchor 320: Visual Culture and Civic Engagement.
M.F.A. in Studio Art from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Professor Toivanen was recently selected to create a permanent public art installation for the new Kansas City International Airport that opened in March 2023.