HARRISBURG, PA — The unsung heroes who contribute their time and passion to preserving the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania’s history were honored this past Saturday at The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) held its annual Volunteer of the Year ceremony to acknowledge the significant contributions made by 20 individuals throughout 2023. Additionally, four volunteers were distinguished with Outstanding Service Awards for their long-standing commitment and unparalleled dedication.
For over a century, the PHMC has relied heavily on the support and expertise of volunteers to complement the efforts of paid staff in executing preservation and interpretation programs across the state. This partnership, according to PHMC Executive Director Andrea Lowery, is essential for the continued success and outreach of the commission’s historic sites and museums. “Our volunteers are critical to our mission,” Lowery stated, emphasizing the importance of their passion for history, community connection, and the warm welcome they extend to visitors eager to learn about shared heritage.
The celebration marks a tradition spanning more than four decades, where commission leadership and volunteers gather each spring to recognize exceptional service. Every historic site and museum along the Pennsylvania Trails of History is invited to nominate a Volunteer of the Year for their service in the preceding calendar year, highlighting individuals who have gone above and beyond in their roles.
The 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award recipients hail from various backgrounds and have contributed to diverse projects, ranging from battlefield preservation efforts at Brandywine Battlefield Park and Bushy Run Battlefield to enriching educational programs at places like the Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara. Each recipient has played a pivotal role in enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of Pennsylvania’s storied past.
The Outstanding Service Awards were presented to four individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication over the years. These awards recognize not just the hours spent volunteering but also the lasting impact these individuals have had on the preservation and interpretation of Pennsylvania’s history. Among the recipients were Bradford “Brad” Kissam and Danielle “Dani” Retallack, whose contributions have significantly enriched the visitor experience and educational offerings at their respective historical sites.
These honors underscore the critical role volunteers play in sustaining the operations of museums and historic sites across Pennsylvania. Their dedication not only aids in conserving the physical aspects of the state’s heritage but also plays a crucial part in ensuring that the stories and lessons of the past remain accessible to future generations.
The PHMC, as the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, oversees a network of museums and historic sites that serve as custodians of the state’s history. The annual Volunteer of the Year ceremony is a testament to the enduring partnership between the commission and its corps of volunteers, celebrating those who devote their time and talents to bringing Pennsylvania’s rich historical legacy to life.
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