WORKSHOP: Innovative and Sustainable Leadership at Museums and Historic Sites
The Texas Historical Commission (THC) has created a new Museum Support & Statewide Services Division as of October 1, 2025. According to Commissioner Garett Donnelly (Midland, Texas), this division’s purpose is “to explore new ways to better assist museums across Texas focusing on building stronger connections between our state historic sites and museums—large and small—for the benefit of the public.”
The Division’s draft mission is to inspire, support, and connect the people who “do Texas history” by providing them with innovative resources and strategic partnerships that advance museum excellence, foster public engagement, and strengthen community-centered stewardship.
Partnerships leverage shared resources and varied perspectives, creating a win-win scenario where the THC and your museum or historic site benefits more than we could alone. The best partnerships combine different but complementary skills.
You are invited to plan next steps to expand THC’s reach and collaboration.
January 8-9, 2026
Washington-on-the-Brazos Conference Center
Registration Fees: $150.00 (covers course materials, food, and beverages for the 2-day workshop)
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: December 18, 2025
Please review the FINAL WORKSHOP AGENDA for details about the workshop.
Lodging Details: A room block is available at the HAMPTON INN AND SUITES, BRENHAM (2605 Schulte Boulevard, Brenham, Texas 77833).
Museum Support and Statewide Services Division Leadership:
- Inez Wolins, Division Director, Museum Support & Statewide Services
- Ellen Cone Busch, Museum Services Director
- Vacant, Assistant Museum Services Director
- Emily Hermans, Chief Educator
- Danielle Christian, Preservation Programs Education Coordinator