Emily McKenzie exemplifies the exceptional quality of the Museum Science and Management (MSM) master’s program. Since graduating in 2021, McKenzie has applied her education to her role as the collections manager at the Oklahoma Museum of Popular Culture (OKPOP).
From project management and the cultivation of soft skills to locating digital resources to support specific tasks, McKenzie consistently applies the skills, knowledge and resources she acquired at TU. “The lessons I learned have only grown in value and relevance over time,” she said, including being mentored by Associate Professor of Art History Kirsten Olds, who serves as interim dean of Kendall College of Arts & Sciences, and McFarlin Library Dean Bob Pickering, who led the MSM program.
McKenzie also said her graduate education included pertinent courses in grant writing and other aspects, which continue to prove instrumental in her role at OKPOP, an organization still in its nascent stages.
TU’s MSM program caters to individuals seeking careers in the expansive museum field, making it an ideal fit for McKenzie’s aspirations. “It is very much a generalist program where a baseline of skills can be established,” she said.
The program’s emphasis on practical training was beneficial, as it required multiple semesters of hands-on work as an intern. These unique opportunities allowed her to apply her skills in a real museum setting, working with authentic collections while simultaneously bolstering her resume.
Connect, collect, collaborate
A division of the Oklahoma Historical Society, OKPOP is dedicated to unveiling the countless tales of Oklahoma’s innovative minds. With its immersive and interactive exhibits, OKPOP fosters a unique environment that inspires visitors to unleash their own creativity.
As the OKPOP’s collections manager, McKenzie assumes a pivotal role in safeguarding the collection materials that encapsulate Oklahoma’s vibrant pop culture history. She said her job “breaks down into a few distinct modules including people management, material care, and strategic long-term planning.”
The collections team, with three part-time employees and three volunteers/interns, is entrusted with tasks that range from conducting and managing a comprehensive inventory to engaging in collections and curatorial research as well as delving into library research.
McKenzie retains overarching responsibility for the preservation of all “hands-on” objects and historical materials, which requires her to comprehend the unique deterioration processes that specific materials may undergo over time. Additionally, she must possess a deep understanding of the optimal housing materials and environmental conditions required to maintain the collections.
Continued education holds a significant place in the routine of the collections staff: “We dedicate a few hours each month to this practice, which ensures that everyone remains well-informed about industry news, evolving practices, and relevant changes.”
As McKenzie continues to shape the cultural experience at OKPOP, her passion for preserving and showcasing Oklahoma’s artistic legacy remains at the forefront. With her remarkable leadership and unwavering dedication, she and other TU alumni in the Tulsa Arts District pave the way for an immersive and engaging journey through the vibrant tapestry of the state’s history.
Discover a program that values hands-on experience and makes a mark in prestigious institutions like the OKPOP Museum. Consider joining The University of Tulsa’s esteemed MSM program today.