by Tracy Schneider
Richmond, VA – The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) recognizes the importance of building deep and lasting relationships with individuals and organizations in its community and across the Commonwealth. Over the past few years, the VMHC has worked with a growing number of community partners on programming and events as part of its vision to better welcome and reflect all Virginians. As these partnerships increased and deepened, it became apparent that sustaining these critical connections and building even more would require the attention of staff dedicated solely to this important work. After an extensive search, the museum has named Joseph Rogers to the critical new position of Manager of Partnerships & Community Engagement.
“We can and we must do more to engage our community and broader Commonwealth,” said VMHC President & CEO Jamie Bosket, “As Virginia’s state history museum, and the oldest cultural organization in Virginia, we have a responsibility to engage, and inspire all Virginians. Building meaningful partnerships with other community-minded organizations and being more present in our community overall will be essential to our future success. We could not be more excited for Joseph’s arrival to lead us in this timely work.”
Born in Roanoke, Joseph developed an appreciation for history at an early age a love instilled by his parents, Lewis and Ajena Rogers, both of whom are long-time employees of the National Park Service. Joseph served in the United States Navy before beginning his work in museums. Starting as a front desk associate, he most recently served as the Education Programs Manager at the American Civil War Museum. His background in history and education is valuable, but it is his passion for outreach and community activism that set him apart as a candidate.
“No institution exists without the community it serves. For us to understand who we are today, we must make room for communities who have long gone unheard to tell their own stories,” said Rogers, who began his work at the VMHC on December 1.
“The VMHC Board recognizes the power of partnerships and the need to prioritize building relationships across our local community, region, and state,” said Board Chair Dr. Pamela Kiecker Royall. “Dedicating a full-time staff member to this work will help us deliver on our commitment to be a place for all Virginians – a place of convening where people of all backgrounds see themselves and their experiences reflected and represented.”
In addition to the Manager of Partnerships & Community Engagement role, the museum is hiring multiple positions over the next few months as it gears up for its grand reopening this Spring after an 18-month, transformative construction project. When complete, the museum will feature a dramatic increase in exhibitions space, new family and youth programming, new community convening spaces including outdoor green spaces, a new library, theater, museum store, and café.
More information on all open roles can be found on their website at VirginiaHistory.org/Jobs.
