History & Democracy Virtual Summit | May 27 – 28
$65 AASLH Members | $85 Nonmembers
20% registration discount for students (call 615-320-3203 or email [email protected] for discount code)
With its vast geographical reach and high degree of public trust, the history sector is uniquely positioned to support a thriving democracy. But the field has largely been an untapped partner in this effort. Now, more than ever, there is an urgent need to leverage and expand the vital role history organizations play in democracy and civic life—both by advancing essential historical knowledge and skills and also by strengthening civic participation, bridging divides, and addressing contemporary challenges. In America’s 250th anniversary year, this two-day virtual summit will offer inspiration, case studies, and connections from within and beyond the history sector to enhance organizational capacity to repair and fortify American civic culture.
Click here to learn more about AASLH’s efforts to amplify the history field’s role in strengthening democracy.
This event is made possible with support from the Virginia Museum of History & Culture and National Constitution Center.
All times Eastern. The program below is subject to change.
Wednesday, May 27
Opening Keynote Conversation
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
The virtual summit kicks off with a keynote roundtable featuring leaders representing institutions doing innovative history and democracy work. This opening conversation will offer inspiration to attendees about the crucial role that history organizations of all sizes, missions, and locations can play in strengthening democratic practice.
Facilitated by expert moderator Jamie Bosket, President and CEO, Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Speakers:
- Natalia Crujeiras, CEO and Executive Director, HistoryMiami Museum
- Rick Noguchi, President and CEO, California Humanities
Doing History is Doing Democracy
1:45 – 3 p.m.
The first case studies panel explores examples of the ways that history organizations’ core services—such as exhibitions, guided tours, teacher resources, and more—promote the historical content and skills that are intrinsic to a functional democracy.
Speakers:
- Michelle Cheng, Deputy Director for Programs, Fairfield Museum and History Center
- Brandon Dillard, Director of Historic Interpretation and Audience Engagement, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
- Julie Parke, Museum Administrator, Elkhart County Historical Museum
Breakout Session
3:15 – 4:15 p.m.
Moderated by Sarah Pharaon, Principal, Dialogic Consulting LLC
Thursday, May 28
History Spaces as Democracy Spaces
12:30 – 1:45 p.m.
The second day of the virtual summit begins with another case studies panel, this one focused on examples of ways that history organizations can repurpose their spaces to serve essential civic functions—as spots for community convening, civic discourse and practice, collective problem solving, bridge-building, and more.
Speakers:
- Jenna Febrizio, Curator, Heurich House Museum
- Lora Vogt, Vice President of Education and Interpretation, National WWI Museum and Memorial
- Terri L. White, President and CEO, Charlotte Museum of History
Partnering to Strengthen Democracy
2 – 3:15 p.m.
The third and final case studies panel highlights examples of cross-sector partnerships that can help strengthen civic fabric while offering mutual benefits for both organizations.
Speakers:
- Renee Brown, Archivist, Palm Springs Historical Society
- Val Brown, Chief Education and Strategic Partnerships Officer, Levine Museum of the New South
- Cathy Saunders, Museum Director, Lippitt House Museum
Breakout Session and Closing
3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Moderated by Sarah Pharaon, Principal, Dialogic Consulting LLC