ANSM is proud to have been given the opportunity to recognize 15 Nova Scotians in the museum sector with Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal. This medal is being given to Nova Scotians who have made significant contributions to the province, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Her Majesty’s reign embodies the importance of commitment to one’s community, and the Platinum Jubilee Medal honours those who have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to their professions and the well-being of the province,” said Lt-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc.
The induction ceremony will take place as part of the upcoming ANSM and Interpretation Canada Conference as part of the opening ceremonies and awards gala. Later regional celebrations will happen for inductees unable to attend the ceremony on October 3.
Please join us in congratulating the following recipients:
Rodney Chaisson, Director, Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village Museum, works to ensure the museum is an authentic celebration of the story, language and living culture of Nova Scotia Gaels. He is an advocate for museums and a support to colleagues.
Eamonn Doorly, Boat Builder at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, has led the program Building Boats, Changing Lives. This program works with youth, mostly in diverse, marginalized communities, teaches life skills through boat building.
Ethel Feener, Gift Shop and Admissions Manager at Ross Farm Museum, works by the policy of putting a smile on each visitor’s face. Her insight was invaluable to museum health and operations during the pandemic.
Joleen Gordon is completing 50 years as a Research Associate with the Nova Scotia Museum. Her research and writing works predominantly with African NS and Mi’kmaq communities. She is generous with sharing knowledge, especially about baskets and wooden flowers.
Penny Harvey is Financial Administrative Officer for the Nova Scotia Museum. Community museum and NSM sites alike rely on Penny’s knowledge and willingness to help. Her coordination of museum pandemic efforts improved staff and visitors’ safety across Nova Scotia.
Judith Hoegg Ryan is a historian, writer, and public speaker. Her expertise on industrial heritage and oral history has contributed to events and organizations in Pictou County, including the Museum of Industry, the Town of Stellarton, and Davis Day and Westray Disaster commemorations.
Elke Ibrahim is volunteer curator and vice-chair at Old Town Hall Museum, Glace Bay. The limited resources of a volunteer-run museum doesn’t stop her from doing big work, be it engaging with community, promoting environmental issues, or repairing historic infrastructure.
Karin Kierstead, Museum Programs Manager, Association of Nova Scotia Museum, is the coach in the corner to community museums. Through her work with CollectiveAccess, NovaMuse, evaluation, and training, she works tirelessly to help museums and museum workers throughout Nova Scotia.
Janice Kirkbright, Executive Director, Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum, works to keep the museum relevant. Through core and targeted programing, and pop-up farmers markets, she works to build awareness of Nova Scotia farming, food innovation, and food choices.
Dr. Roger Lewis, Mi’kmaq Cultural History Curator, Nova Scotia Museum, works closely with Mi’kmaw communities to gather and record information about their cultural objects. He regularly advises museums and educators on how to present treaty rights and Mi’kmaw history.
Susan Marchand-Terrio is Executive Director at Isle Madame Historical Society / LeNoir Forge Museum. She is recognized locally as “consistently and faithfully” leading the organization. Her contributions to the provincial museum sector include championing community museums in discussions around evaluation and accreditation.
Carol Nauss is Curator at Lordly House Museum in Chester. She runs the municipal museum with passion and professionalism. Her community-minded approach shows in the museum and the surrounding Lordly Park, maintained by the museum for community use.
Stephanie Smith, Executive Director for Archives, Museums, and Libraries, helps build capacity by emphasizing good practices at museums in Nova Scotia. She encourages museums to root themselves in community service and engagement, while striving to tell diverse stories.
Ashley Sutherland was Archivist/Curator at Colchester Historeum. She implemented creative solutions and a strong sense of social justice to create exhibits, research, and collections management that prioritize telling “lost histories.” Her work gave people pride and curiosity in their history.
Joanne Watts, Manager, Chestico Museum, is a champion of Port Hood area history and culture. From researching and sharing stories to organizing events and activities, she generously shares her time, knowledge, and expertise for the benefit of the entire community.
Thank you for your continued passion and dedication to the heritage community!
