Caitlin (Katy) Menne, as the Education Director at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, embodies the philosophy of "Aspire to Inspire," striving for total inclusion in her educational initiatives. With a profound commitment to making maritime history accessible and engaging for all ages, Katy leads the...
Caitlin (Katy) Menne, as the Education Director at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, embodies the philosophy of "Aspire to Inspire," striving for total inclusion in her educational initiatives. With a profound commitment to making maritime history accessible and engaging for all ages, Katy leads the development and implementation of innovative maritime programs that foster curiosity and inquiry. Her role is pivotal in shaping the museum's educational landscape, where she provides strategic direction and leadership to ensure that programming resonates with diverse audiences.
Katy's expertise extends beyond program creation; she is a catalyst for collaboration, actively cultivating relationships with community organizations and funding sources to enhance the museum's impact. As the head of the museum's Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) committee, she champions initiatives that prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that every visitor feels seen and valued. Her adept budget management skills enable her to effectively allocate resources, overseeing a department budget that supports a dynamic team of four full-time and two part-time staff members.
In her role, Katy emphasizes hands-on, inquiry-centered learning, believing that education should be an engaging experience that inspires lifelong curiosity. Her background in public speaking, writing, and communication allows her to effectively convey complex historical narratives in a digestible manner, making history not just a subject to study, but a story to experience. Through her leadership, the Columbia River Maritime Museum continues to thrive as a beacon of knowledge, fostering a love for maritime heritage that resonates with individuals of all backgrounds.