Museum Staff Spotlight - August 2024

What brought you to the VMHC and how long have you worked here?

I came to VMHC by way of collaboration and partnership and have worked here for a little over a year. The John Marshall Center leased space at the museum for a couple of years and happily joined last July 4 as a signature study center dedicated to constitutional history and civics and in preparation for the 250th Initiative.

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Can you describe what you do in a few sentences?

The John Marshall Center engages the public about the life and legacy of United States Chief Justice John Marshall (1755-1835) and produces civics educational resources and public history programs for learners of all ages.

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Last year, the John Marshall Center for Constitutional History & Civics (JMC), merged with the museum to create a new civics education center as part of a multi-year initiative to mark America’s 250th anniversary. As the Director of the John Marshall Center for Constitutional History & Civic, what has this transition been like for you??

The transition has been amazing. We knew we would experience a dramatic increase in scope and scale, but we’ve been able to do far more than we even imagined. Case in point is the launch of Civics Connects, a new comprehensive resource for Virginia’s middle grades, the biggest civics initiative of either institution.

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How can visitors utilize the JMC study center?

Visitors can take a guided civics tour of the Story of Virginia or strike out on a self-guided civics treasure hunt. We also invite everyone to check out Civics Connects and to be on the lookout for our public lectures and events such as the Marshall Scholar Series and Constitution Day programming.

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Why is civics education important to you?

Civics education is the study of our responsibilities and rights as citizens. It’s crucial that we each understand that our Constitution and all that it carries—both privileges and obligations—belong to each of us. There is a renewed focus on civics nationally, and I’m thrilled that we are out front on that trend.

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How would you describe the VMHC to someone who’s never visited before?

The VMHC is a place of connection and discovery for all. There is always something astonishing to see. I recommend checking out the Céleron Plate—the only intact plaque still in existence from France’s 1749 attempted claim on Virginia lands—and the Secrets and Symbols exhibition, where you can find hidden and surprising messages in a variety of decorative objects. And everyone’s favorite exhibition right now is Julia Child: A Recipe for Life, which is open until September 2.

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What upcoming 250 initiatives are you most excited for?

I’m excited for the collective focus on what it means to build a more perfect union. Equipping students with civics skills is part of that important work. Civics Connects will help students know where to find America’s founding documents and teach them how ask questions of these vital sources.

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What are some of your favorite local restaurants to visit?

I’ve been enjoying Click this summer! It’s a new wine shop and bar in the Tuckahoe Shopping Center that offers small plates and pairings. And I always love Stella’s and Mekong.?It’s a civic duty to support Richmond’s great restaurant scene!