The new AmeriCorps program at the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum is speeding right along with the addition of a second AmeriCorps volunteer! My name is Eileen Leary, and I’m a 25 year old MA graduate from University College London. I grew up around boats – I’ve been on them since literally before I was born! – have degrees in history and archaeology, and have worked in museum education. I’m also very passionate about public service and giving back to the community, so when I found out about the position at the LCMM, it seemed made for me!
I’m very excited to be here, because there are so many opportunities for me to explore my varied interests. Lake Champlain Maritime Museum not only has a fascinating museum collection, but also full-sized replicas of several historic vessels, a blacksmith’s shop, boat-building facilities, and many educational programs that incorporate several of the above. These fantastic resources allow for hands-on, non-traditional education that can adapt to all learning styles, and can be especially helpful for learners for whom a traditional classroom setting isn’t ideal!
I wasn’t always passionate about museum education and archaeology, and it was only through community programs and educational opportunities that I was able to realize my interest in these topics. Now as an archaeologist, I’m especially looking forward to the Shipwreck Tours, which allow you to explore the many shipwrecks of Lake Champlain via ROV. Remote Operated Vehicles are very useful tools for underwater archaeology, so I’m also excited for our summer camps that allow kids to build or modify their own ROV – learn more about them here!
I look forward to helping young learners find their interests, expand their skills and knowledge, and discover the rich history of Lake Champlain!