Dear members,
In this season, it feels natural to reflect on the year that’s almost done and all there is to be grateful for. I’m grateful for the longevity of the Museum and the trust the community places in our organization as we celebrate our 122nd birthday and 50th year of membership this year. I’m humbled by the dedication of our staff and volunteers to earning that trust day in and day out in everything they do to serve you, our members, along with our other guests and to consistently connect with communities in exciting and meaningful ways. I hope you have had a moment or an experience with your museum this year that you remember fondly.
In this issue, we’re excited to introduce you to a number of our newer staff. Flip to our Museum Insider section to meet Philanthropy Manager Meiko Lunetta and learn about her family’s long-time connections to your museum. And you’ll meet Curator of Anthropology Chris Patrello and Anthropology Department Head Conservator Casey Mallinckrodt in our Museum Treasures section where they share a project they’re collaborating on within the Avenir Center for Inclusive Conservation.
Please don’t miss our two traveling exhibitions, “Apollo: When We Went to the Moon” and “Unseen Oceans.” We’re thrilled to offer these two experiences that inspire fresh perspectives on our planet and beyond into the new year.
Finally, Andie Carrillo gives you an inside look at the work she oversees in the zoology prep lab in our Discover Science section.
I wish you a wonderful holiday season and hope you’ll find time to visit us soon.
Thank you for your support,