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About Me

Hello and welcome to my website! I am a passionate and multifaceted leader who values civic-engagement and believes that museums harbor immense potential to transform communities and empower individuals. 

 

I am also a person outside of work and strongly believe that healthy work environments start with sharing our whole, authentic selves. Outside of my work as a museum professional, I enjoy building my creative skillset. I am always trying a new medium and most recently have been into clay hand-building, crocheting, and hand embroidery. I also love to read, easily become entranced by a good television drama, and am frequently singing along to Taylor Swift. I have been a dog lover my entire life and I enjoy being active whether that be dog walking for a neighbor, practicing yoga, or using my new rollerskates at the local rink.

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I always enjoy meeting new people and talking about museums, so if you feel so inclined, check out my contact information below and send me a message!

Photo of Marissa Hamm

Mission Statement

As a museum professional, my mission is to foster connections between individuals and their communities through dynamic storytelling, thoughtful dialogue, and programming that addresses needs in the community.

Vision Statement

My vision is to be a leader in the local history field. I work to activate local history organizations as vital community centers that are inclusive of all residents’ stories and that provide valuable programming to instill pride in one’s community and encourage greater civic engagement among visitors.

Values

1 / Civic Engagement

I believe that you help to shape the community you live in through your service. It is important to do your part in your personal and professional life to make your community a better place for everyone to feel welcome and at home.

2 / Community-Centered Practice

I believe that museums are inherently for the public, therefore the needs and wants of the surrounding community should be at the center of everything a museum does. It is important that every individual can see themself represented in a museum, and to feel that museums are inclusive and safe spaces.

3 / Informal Lifelong Learning

I believe that museums have the power to support every person to continue learning, exploring new ideas, and growing. Through my practice, I aim to encourage every visitor to have fun and to embrace their sense of curiosity.

4/ Open Communication

I believe that the best work environments and most successful projects are achieved when everyone involved is open, honest, and respectful in their communication with one another. “Communication is key” is a core mantra that I live by.

5 / Empathy

I believe that to be a good museum professional, you need to be compassionate and open to hearing and understanding without judgment. I also believe that museums have the power to increase visitors’ capacity for empathy through sensitive and intentional storytelling.

6 / Mentorship

I believe that every individual has a duty to help emerging professionals learn about the field through hands-on mentoring. I have benefited greatly from a number of incredible mentors, and I strive to be a mentor for young professionals throughout my career.

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