Behind the Scenes at SMA: People Profiles

Name:
Lauren Silberman

Position with SMA:
Board and Conference Committee Member

Position Elsewhere and Where:
Museum Assessment Program Coordinator, American Association of Museums, Washington, DC

When did you first become involved with SMA?
I became involved with SMA by attending one of the conferences. It was one of the first museum related conferences I had attended, and it was fantastic. There was so much to learn, so many people to meet, and so much music to dance to at the gala! I came back charged up and ready to go at my old stomping grounds, The Jewish Museum of Maryland.

What is the best thing about SMA?
Has everyone said the people, because it's definitely the people! Everyone is so enthusiastic and excited. I couldn't believe when I found out later that SMA is entirely volunteer run because of how professional the experience was. It reflects on the great volunteer work happening at so many museums out there.

What do you hope to see SMA do in the future?
I hope to see not only more great conferences but to see SMA connect with museum folks in new ways - maybe a more comprehensive website, maybe more resources for those who can't attend the conference, maybe something else entirely. I can't wait to find out!

Behind the Scenes at SMA: People Profiles

Name:
Mike Henry

Position with SMA:
Board Member, SMA

Position Elsewhere and Where:
Site Administrator, Colvin Run Mill Historic Site
Adjunct Professor, NVCC
Member, AAM, AASLH, VAM, NVAH, Loyal Order of Water Buffalos, Bedrock lodge

When did you first become involved with SMA?
I first became involved with SMA when a number of colleagues suggested that I attend the annual conference at the Princess Royal Hotel in OC. It was a great conference - I was hooked - and for the next 6 or 7 years I had the opportunity to present a number of sessions at the Conference with the likes of Mr Bow Tie , John Verrill, the always enchanting Lisa Mason-Chaney, and several others. I finally joined the board several years later when the legendary Ann Korzeniewski, the big man, Mike Leister and the almost life-like Ken Hickman took turns holding a gun to my head until I agreed.

What is the best thing about SMA?
The best thing about SMA is the people. I don't think I've ever met a group of people so quick to offer help, suggestions and resources. The very best way to experience this is to get involved in SMA - join the conference committee, plan a session, help with the local arrangements. I promise you'll enjoy it and you'll be helping a a great organization.

What do you hope to see SMA do in the future?
As for the future of SMA, I think it is limitless! There are some great officers on the Board now and the energy and enthusiasm of the SMA membership is contagious. Plus just take a look at how many formally big museums are starting to qualify as small ones now!

Behind the Scenes: People Profiles

Name:

Karen L. Daly

Position on SMA Board:

Secretary

Position elsewhere and where:

Executive Director, Dumbarton House, DC

When did you first become involved with SMA?

About 5 years ago when I attended the conference for the first time.

Why did you want to join the board?

SMA is a critical organization for our field--supporting and responding to the needs of the small institutions. The conference is one of the best professional development opportunities I've ever experienced, offering lots of opportunity to network with colleagues and relevant sessions chock full of useful tips and resources. I wanted an opportunity to serve this organization and to support the incredible work that small museums do each and every day.

What is the best thing about SMA?

The conference!

What do you hope to see SMA do in the future?

Continue the great conference and provide more opportunities for small museum staff and volunteers to network and learn from each other.