Preserving the Legacy of America’s 33rd President
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, a premier historical institution dedicated to the life and legacy of the 33rd President of the United States, is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its new Director. This prestigious role offers an exciting opportunity for an individual with a deep passion for history, a commitment to public service, and a proven track record of successful museum management.
As the Director of the Truman Library and Museum, you will have the privilege of overseeing the preservation, interpretation, and dissemination of the remarkable story of Harry S. Truman, a man whose remarkable life and presidency had a profound impact on the course of American and world history. From his humble beginnings in Missouri to his pivotal decision-making during some of the most critical moments in the 20th century, Truman’s legacy continues to inspire and educate people of all ages.
The Truman Library and Museum: A Dynamic Hub of Scholarship and Public Engagement
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is a comprehensive institution that serves as a hub of scholarly research, educational programming, and public engagement. Located in Independence, Missouri, the library houses an extensive collection of Truman’s personal and presidential papers, as well as a wealth of artifacts, audiovisual materials, and other historical resources that provide a unique and in-depth understanding of the Truman era.
The museum, which is currently undergoing a major renovation and expansion project, offers a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors, bringing Truman’s life and legacy to life through cutting-edge interactive exhibits, educational programs, and community events. The new 12,000-square-foot Truman exhibit will feature the latest interactive experiences, coupled with a comprehensive educational strategy and improved storytelling to engage a 21st-century audience.
As the Director, you will be responsible for leading the charge in shaping the future of the Truman Library and Museum, ensuring that it continues to be a vibrant and relevant institution that inspires and educates people of all backgrounds. This includes:
Key Responsibilities of the Director
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Strategic Planning and Vision: Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan that aligns with the overall mission and goals of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the parent organization of the Truman Library and Museum. This will involve setting ambitious yet achievable objectives, allocating resources effectively, and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
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Collections Management and Preservation: Oversee the library’s extensive archival program, which includes the papers of Harry Truman, his cabinet members, congressional leaders, and other political figures. Ensure the proper preservation, cataloging, and accessibility of these invaluable historical materials, making them available to researchers, students, and the general public.
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Exhibitions and Public Programming: Direct the development and implementation of engaging and educational exhibitions, public programs, and events that bring the Truman story to life. Work closely with the Truman Library Institute, the private, nonprofit partner of the museum, to create dynamic partnerships and collaborative initiatives that enhance the library’s reputation and reach.
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Community Engagement and Partnerships: Foster strong relationships with academic institutions, cultural organizations, and community groups, both locally and nationally. Develop innovative programs and initiatives that leverage the Truman Library’s resources to address contemporary issues and foster civic engagement.
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Fundraising and Resource Management: Provide leadership in the library’s fundraising efforts, working closely with the Truman Library Institute to secure necessary funding from government sources, private donors, and corporate sponsors. Ensure the efficient and responsible management of the library’s budget, personnel, and other resources.
Qualifications and Desired Attributes
The ideal candidate for the Director of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum will possess a unique blend of professional experience, scholarly expertise, and visionary leadership. Specifically, we are seeking an individual who:
- Holds a graduate degree in history, museum studies, public administration, or a related field, with a deep understanding of American history and the Truman era.
- Has a proven track record of successful leadership and management within a museum, library, or other cultural institution, demonstrating the ability to lead a talented and dedicated team.
- Possesses exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including scholars, educators, policymakers, and the general public.
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to public service and a passion for preserving and interpreting the legacy of America’s 33rd president.
- Exhibits a collaborative and innovative spirit, with the ability to develop and implement creative programming and partnerships that enhance the library’s impact and reach.
- Embraces the use of technology and digital platforms to modernize the museum experience and expand its online presence.
- Understands the importance of fundraising and resource management, and has the skills to secure the necessary financial support to sustain and grow the Truman Library and Museum.
Joining the Truman Legacy
As the Director of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum, you will have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in preserving and sharing the remarkable story of one of America’s most consequential and influential leaders. By leading this renowned institution, you will contribute to a lasting legacy of public service, civic engagement, and historical understanding.
If you are excited by the prospect of shaping the future of the Truman Library and Museum, we encourage you to apply for this prestigious and impactful role. To learn more about the application process and the specific requirements, please visit the National Archives and Records Administration website.
We look forward to receiving your application and the opportunity to discuss your vision for the Truman Library and Museum. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of Harry S. Truman continues to inspire and educate generations to come.
Celebrating Truman’s Legacy of Leadership
In addition to the Director position, the Truman Library and Museum also honors individuals who have demonstrated the qualities of leadership and service exemplified by President Truman through the annual Harry S. Truman Legacy of Leadership Award. This prestigious award, established in 2010 by the Truman Library Institute, recognizes those who have a sustained and distinguished record of serving their community, their state, and their nation.
The 2024 Harry S. Truman Legacy of Leadership Award will be presented to Senator Roy Blunt at the 25th Annual Wild About Harry celebration on April 18, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri. Senator Blunt’s commitment to bipartisanship, education, and civic engagement aligns closely with the values and principles that Harry Truman championed throughout his life and presidency.
“The Institute is pleased to honor Senator Blunt with the 2024 Harry S. Truman Legacy of Leadership Award,” said Alex Burden, executive director of the Truman Library Institute. “Like Truman, Senator Blunt’s service to his community and country has always been grounded in a deep understanding of history and a commitment to bipartisanship. He is a champion of education and has been a tremendous supporter of the civics-education mission at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum.”
Past recipients of the Truman Legacy of Leadership Award include Admiral Michelle Howard, USAID Director Samantha Power, General James Mattis, the late Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, and U.S. Congressmen James Clyburn and the late John Lewis, among other distinguished individuals who have embodied the leadership qualities exemplified by Harry Truman.
Sharing Your Truman Memories
As the Truman Library and Museum undergoes its exciting transformation, the institution is also seeking to capture firsthand accounts from local individuals who had the opportunity to meet President Truman or First Lady Bess Truman during their time in Independence, Missouri.
If you or someone you know has had the privilege of interacting with the Trumans, the library encourages you to share your story. These personal memories and anecdotes may be featured in a special video exhibit that will be part of the new permanent display, allowing visitors to connect with the Trumans on a more intimate level.
To submit your story, please visit the Truman Library Institute’s website and fill out the online form by Sunday, September 22. Alternatively, you can mail your response to the following address:
Local Memories of Truman
Truman Library Institute
5151 Troost Ave., Ste. 300
Kansas City, MO 64110
The Truman Library and Museum is committed to preserving the legacy of America’s 33rd president, and your personal stories and recollections will play a vital role in this endeavor. We encourage the Stanley Park High School community to participate in this meaningful project and help bring the Truman story to life for generations to come.
Conclusion
The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum is a truly remarkable institution that serves as a beacon of American history and values. As it embarks on a new chapter with the search for a dynamic and visionary Director, the Truman Library and Museum offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to shape the future of this prestigious institution.
Whether you are a student, an educator, or a member of the broader community, we invite you to explore the Truman Library and Museum and engage with its rich resources and programming. By supporting this important institution, you can play a role in preserving the legacy of one of America’s most influential presidents and inspiring future generations to pursue lives of public service and civic engagement.
We encourage you to visit the Truman Library Institute’s website to stay informed about the latest developments and upcoming events, and to consider sharing your own personal memories of the Trumans. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of Harry S. Truman continues to shape and inspire our nation for years to come.
