Q1: Tell us something about your background—education, experience and positions held prior to coming to the Museum of Glass.

LH: I have a Bachelor of Science degree in construction management and a Masters degree in business administration. I have spent most of my career working in and around the construction industry including power plants (nuclear and geothermal), in downtown development (museums, theaters and convention centers) and in land development and resource management. Prior to starting work at the Museum of Glass, I worked for a water utility in northern California managing a $100 million land acquisition and resource management program associated with the development of a reservoir for drinking water.

Q2: How long have you worked at MoG and what led you to take the position here?

LH: I moved to Washington in December 1999, and joined the Museum the following March. The Museum’s former Director Josi Callan and I worked together in San Jose, California, where I was the project manager for the design and construction of the San Jose Museum of Art. I became reacquainted with Josi in February 2000 and she quickly filled me in on her exciting new position as Director of the Museum of Glass. Shortly after our meeting Josi invited me to join the museum and her small but rapidly growing team. I enthusiastically accepted the position of Director of Operations with primary responsibility for the Museum construction project.

Q3: Describe what you do as Deputy Director and how it fits into the museum management system.

LH: As Deputy Director I manage and/or coordinate all administrative and operational aspects of the Museum. In addition, I serve in place of the Director in their absence, and attend meetings of the Board of Trustees, Executive, Finance and Trustee Committees. I oversee facilities, security, store, café, after-hours events, business operations and marketing and when the need arises, I manage construction issues related to the building project, legal issues and financial and strategic planning.

Q4: What is the most satisfying part of your job?

LH: The most satisfying parts of my job are working with people including staff, docents and visitors, and the diversity of my position. I enjoy my work and love working at the Museum.

Q5: How and when did your interest in museum management develop?

LH: I have worked in management positions in a variety of organizations and while the work is
different the goals are similar. The Museum of Glass is like a small business with products and services, customers, financial challenges and big dreams for success. Working at the Museum has been a wonderful experience and allowed me to learn a great deal about Museum and nonprofit management.

Q6: What have been the most important influences in your life? Mentors or role models?

LH: While I have spent many years in school, people and circumstances have been my greatest teachers. My values and interests are the result of my family and upbringing, and my knowledge and perspectives are the result of friends and circumstances.

Q7: Regarding museums in general, what new trends or practices do you see developing? What are the biggest challenges facing museums today? What makes a museum successful over time?

LH: In addition to the traditional role of museums as collectors, preservers and interpreters of things including artwork, museums are assuming leadership roles in communities as centers of learning and partners in economic development and cultural tourism. The expanded role of museums is creating opportunities and challenges as museums grow, compete and collaborate with new non-profit partners. Museums, in partnership with the community, must embrace the expanded role and seek adequate funding to ensure long term financial stability. The success of a museum is all about the mission, vision, leadership at every level and financial resources.

Q8: At MoG, what has (have) been your favorite exhibit(s) so far?

LH: Karen LaMonte: Absence Adorned was my favorite exhibition. The sculptural dress forms and creative technique are amazing!