ABOUT
Sarah Whaley (she/they)
MISSION
I design and implement engaging exhibits, programs, and collaborative opportunities for communities to connect with collections in new and stimulating ways that create lasting relationships between cultural institutions and audiences.
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VISION
I will be a changemaker through facilitating transformative community conversations and collaborations around collections. In doing so, I will empower people to better understand themselves, one another, and our shared world, and to imagine and create equitable futures for all.
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VALUES
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Authenticity
When we bring our whole selves to our spaces, we allow wholehearted engagement.
I commit to bringing my whole self to my spaces, and to creating encouraging, brave spaces where others may do the same.
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Inclusivity
Diverse ideas, perspectives, and experiences are what make our world exciting.
I commit to eliminating barriers to access, success, and joy for those who have been marginalized and to making room for everyone at the table.​
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Collaboration
We are social beings and what we dream and create together will always be greater than what we dream and create alone. I commit to the time and dialogue necessary to build and maintain respectful, reciprocal partnerships.​
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Creativity
Limitations met with imagination and innovation become possibilities. I commit to boldly meeting challenges with flexibility, ingenuity, and perseverance.​
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Sustainability
We are stewards of one another, our resources, and our world. I commit to mindful and intentional relationships with others, resources, and the environment that promote balance and longevity.​
Education
2020-2022
Indiana University, Indianapolis (IUPUI)
2012-2016
Indiana University, Bloomington
Spring 2015
University of
Adelaide, Australia
M.A. in Museum Studies
Awarded IUPUI Premier 10 & Greek Goddess Scholarship
Courses: Collections, archives, exhibits, education, interpretation, administration
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B.A. in Journalism with Highest Distinction
Awarded Cox Research Scholarship
Specialization in Journalism Design & Graphics
Additional Major: Cognitive Science, Minor: Psychology
Exchange Semester Abroad
Courses: Indigenous people, country, and protocols; anthropology; digital storytelling; linguistics
Experience
Highlights
Aug 2021 - Present
Center for Ray Bradbury Studies,
Indianapolis
Feb 2021 - Present
FBI Art Crime Team,
Indianapolis
April 2021 - Aug 2021
Center for Rural Engagement
(Beck's Mill Ghost Lab),
Salem, IN
Coordinator of Preservation, Exhibits, and Archives
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Assess & address preservation needs of collections
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Design & implement exhibits, tours & programs
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Contribute to strategic planning & rebranding
Collections Team Member
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Conduct provenance research for repatriation
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Handle, label & rehouse sensitive collections
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Monitor environment for hazards
Site Interpretation Team Member
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Participated in community stakeholder dialogue
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Developed surveys, compiled & visualized data
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Provided recommendations for sustainable practices