Sunday, August 25, 2013

Introducing VAM's New Assistant Director


It's an honor to be writing to you as VAM’s new Assistant Director. As a member of the Virginia Association of Museums, I've greatly appreciated and admired the fantastic conferences, informative programs, and excellent networking opportunities that I've experienced over the years, and I'm eager to have the opportunity to give back to the organization that has given so much to me throughout my career. My respect for VAM has only grown though after seeing first-hand the level of passion and dedication to the museum profession that exists amongst its staff, council, volunteers, and consultants.

It's been an honor to be part of this extended family over the past two years as project manager of the grant-funded Virginia Collections Initiative. I’m very proud to have had the opportunity to assist the incredibly diverse museum, library, and archive communities in Virginia and Washington, DC and of the work I’ve accomplished, from assisting members with renewals to expanding VAM’s recognition nationwide with the Top 10 Endangered Artifacts program. But I’m most grateful to now have the opportunity to take on a permanent leadership role at one of the most well respected museum associations in the country and continue to work alongside some of the best people I’ve ever met. Having worked with many of you already too, I look forward to building on our friendships and offer you my dedicated support in the years to come.

During the interview, I was asked what the greatest challenge would be, it was easy to reply, “filling Jennifer’s shoes”; but I feel confident in my abilities and 17 years of experience in the nonprofit cultural sector. As I’ve helped with the transformation of Downtown Richmond to an arts and cultural district, as founder of the popular First Fridays Art Walk, I look forward to sharing my passion with VAM to take it to its next stage too. The opportunities seem endless thanks to the many individuals, institutions, and businesses dedicated to our museum field.

Best,
Christina

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