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Education Background:
B.A. History (Wells College), M.A. Museum Studies (George Washington University), M.S. Library and Information Science (University of Kentucky)
What was your professional background before your current position?
Digital Preservation Specialist (Hudson Archival), Archives Fellow (Buffalo History Museum / CEPA Gallery). I also have a lot of museum internships under my belt, including at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. And I 'did my time' in retail, as a Pharmacy Technician before I could get hired in the field.
What do you like best about your work?
I love being able to share our incredible collection of historical artifacts with museum visitors, passionate volunteers, and fellow staff members. Object-based learning is something I am very enthusiastic about. And I just love it when I can get other people to nerd out with me!
What has been your biggest professional challenge?
Honestly, the biggest challenge of my professional life was getting a job in said profession. It took me nine years to land my dream museum job!
How are you seeing issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility play a more prominent role in your work environment?
Museums sometimes have this reputation of elitism. We want people from all backgrounds to feel welcome and included. The Seward House Museum has recently hired a DEAI Fellow to create a report on best practices that we can incorporate in our next strategic plan to help us accomplish this.
Have you seen any shifts towards sustainability in the workplace that you think would be useful in other libraries or institutions?
It's a little harder to make the shift towards sustainability in a historic house. You want to do what's better for the environment, but you can't compromise the historic structure and significance. It's not impossible to do, but you have to walk that fine line. We are making more strides towards sustainability though, particularly when it comes to our barn and carriage house revitilization project that will be starting soon. We will be digging geo-thermal wells which will be used to power the museum's outbuildings.
What other organizations are you involved with?
None at the moment, but I am hoping to get more involved in other community organizations soon! I've had a year now to settle into my job and the area, so it's time to start spreading my wings more, so to speak.
What advice would you give to someone new to the field?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! It's okay if you don't have all the answers. There is a whole community out there of fellow professionals who are more than happy to share their knowledge and experiences with you!
Are there any tips you would like to share that help you get things done?
Organization is key. I have a tendency towards being a little scatterbrained, so having a planner, Google calendar, and a large supply of sticky notes are all essential for me!
What software/web tools do you use regularly?
PastPerfect, Photoshop, InDesign, and Google Calendar / Docs
What are you most proud of?
The hard work and perseverance that got me to where I am today.
What is one thing you would you like to learn?
How to make the perfect French macaron.
What are you most looking forward to doing this fall?
Finding even more ways to consume pumpkin spice!
Thank you Emma!
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