Today, July 29, is my parents’ anniversary. While a 36th anniversary is a “run of the mill” anniversary, the fact that it falls on my blog-posting day got me thinking about anniversaries.
Less than a week ago, my wife and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary. Earlier this year was my 10th anniversary at the Woodson Art Museum. These dates fit into the broader context of the Museum’s 45th anniversary year, beginning this fall.
It’s humbling and a tad shocking to think I have been at the Museum almost a quarter of the time it has been in existence. Another two years will accomplish that. Time does fly when you’re having fun. Although ten years seems like a long time, it pales in comparison to curator of collections / registrar Jane Weinke, administrative manager Shari Schroeder, director Kathy Foley, and recently retired curator Andy McGivern, whose combined number of years of service to the Museum is impressive, but omitted in this blog to ensure my escape from their collective wrath.
It’s significant that the Woodson Art Museum has been able to attract and retain employees for such long tenures. Much like being married, working for one employer and alongside many familiar colleagues involves trust, communication, active listening, and the ability to be spontaneous and have fun. Those listed above certainly exhibit these traits, and the environment at the Museum cultivates and nurtures them.
For all these anniversaries, I can only hope many more are to come.
