This being my second year attending WMA, my experience from the start was a closed shell. I knew I had to take that deep breath in and out to get out of my own world to open to meeting and starting conversations. That is figuring out what session I would be attending but first coffee.
I wanted to seek more at this conference. Keeping open minded to the goals that I have set for myself I was unable to attend any of the Pre-Tour sessions. Instead, I was able to do a workshop at the Nevada Museum of Art. Elevating Visitors’ Voices: Innovative Approaches to Qualitative Research. I will say it was off to a good start to get to know our visitors more than we should. This was informative for analysis techniques to all staff members. For sure giving this method a shot within the workplace.
I was able to attend eight sessions, from collections to management of exhibits to succession planning. I was impressed with the evening activities. I had the opportunity to join colleagues at the Discovery Museum, and I must say I felt like a kid again. Museum of Art was also on my list. At the evening events that I attended, I was nervous at first but who is not when it comes to a new place and people you do not know. Yet all working in a museum setting or can relate. I felt like the elephant in the room once. But I took that deep breath and told myself that they are probably more nervous than I am, I got this.
I did go to some interesting sessions that were during the time at WMA conference. Every session has giving ideas and finding solutions in what would work better or how can we do this better. I did enjoy Succession Planning for Museums. In which is a critical process for stability and growth. The breakdown of each continuity, engagement, well as support to be successful. The entire session was informative and not confusing. It defined each part within a business and how things could be done to be successful. Short term/ long term/ unplanned gives an outline of communication planning within a workplace. Another session Aloha No- Despair with Noelle Kahanu and Meleanna Meyer. This was what I really needed, a break from reality after losing my mom not too long ago. I cannot help but thank these ladies for their words of kindness and love. We all need that break when it comes to our busy lives.
As a receipt of the Wanda Chin Scholarship, I would like to say thank you to WMA. It has been a tough year in my personal life and my work life. I was not sure if I was going to be able to attend this year to shutdowns. I was very fortune to get this scholarship. At this year’s conference I was able to make more connections and furthermore gather information that is critical in our museum. I must say thou I look forward to WMA- Elevate. There were so many sessions I wanted to check out but the ones that I did I was grateful for every bit of information and mentors that made strategy and dedication to give valuable information from exhibits to succession. I applaud those that have made WMA 90th year a successful year.
I was also delighted to have the opportunity to show several colleagues around the Pyramid Lake Reservation. After giving some a tour of the museum, I also had the chance to take them to the lake a moment before heading back to attend the evening event. I felt a lot of positive energy from the conference and the people. Again, thank you Western Museum Association for this opportunity as a receipt for the Wanda Chin Scholarships.
My best regards,
Maureen Williams
Museum Assistant
Pyramid Lake Museum & Visitors Center
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