Participation Type
Panel
Session Title
Session 4.06 Education and Tourism
Presentation #1 Title
Interpretation in Appalachian: How We Tell the Story of West Virginia
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
The West Virginia Association of Museums is the trade organization for museums and museum professionals. This collective panel represents the largest museum in the state as well as one of the smallest. Jim Mitchell, curator of the state museum, will share the challenges of assembling a diverse collection of artifacts which represent the state as a whole. Leslie Baker, Director of the Beckley Museum Complex will address the issues facing coal museums and share the secrets of the success of the only exhibition coal mine in WV. Rebekah Karelis will speak to the success of a collaborative effort in Wheeling that allows the multiple historic sites and venues to enhance the visitors experience to the region. Dean Hardman will share how easy it is to successfully brand a historic site through the gift shop as he does as WVU Jackson's Mill Conference Center. The panel discussion will be facilitated by WVAM President Jane Gilchrist.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
Jane Gilchrist completed her M.Ed. at Fairmont State University in December of 2014. She specializes in historic textiles of West Virginia and is currently researching 19th & 20th Century weavers of the region.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #2
Jim Mitchell is the Curator of the WV State Museum has an expertise in decorative arts, ceramics, and munitions. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin he has more than 50 years experience in Museums.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #3
Leslie Baker is Director of the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Complex.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #4
Bekah Karelis has a Masters in Public History from WVU where she serves as adjunct professor. She manages the historical collections & artifacts of the Wheeling National Heritage Area.
Interpretation in Appalachian: How We Tell the Story of West Virginia
Harris Hall 234
The West Virginia Association of Museums is the trade organization for museums and museum professionals. This collective panel represents the largest museum in the state as well as one of the smallest. Jim Mitchell, curator of the state museum, will share the challenges of assembling a diverse collection of artifacts which represent the state as a whole. Leslie Baker, Director of the Beckley Museum Complex will address the issues facing coal museums and share the secrets of the success of the only exhibition coal mine in WV. Rebekah Karelis will speak to the success of a collaborative effort in Wheeling that allows the multiple historic sites and venues to enhance the visitors experience to the region. Dean Hardman will share how easy it is to successfully brand a historic site through the gift shop as he does as WVU Jackson's Mill Conference Center. The panel discussion will be facilitated by WVAM President Jane Gilchrist.
