Idabel, OK (March 19, 2019)—The Museum has hired a second educator, Hannah McNutt (pictured left with Kay Talley, Oklahoma Home and Community Education). The move comes after a year of sharp growth. According to Brian Hendershot, Head of Communications and Outreach, program attendance grew by 410% in 2018. This had a corresponding effect on visitation, which increased by 86%. He noted that the Museum is already on track to exceed last year’s numbers.
Average program attendance also rose. Christina Eastep, Head of Programs, said “our weekend programs often attract 60, 80, and sometimes 100+ people.” The board hired Hannah in order to meet demand. Hannah will manage the Museum’s new visitor engagement initiatives. She’ll also oversee the Learning Center, an educational space designed to complement the Museum’s exhibits. According to Eastep, “Hannah is very professional and great with kids…she’s going to be a great asset to the Museum.”
Hannah is a recent graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma’s museum studies program. Before working at the Museum, she interned at the Edmond Historical Society and the Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve. She held similar positions at both organizations—albeit with less responsibilities. Hannah was drawn to the position because of “the Museum’s mission and approach to artifacts.” When asked if she had any big plans for the department, she said, “I’m still trying to take it all in.”
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