Tiffany Fisk, Director of Interpretation at the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia, brings over 25 years of experience in museum work and living history interpretation to her leadership role. Her approach combines deep historical knowledge with a strong commitment to supporting and empowering her team. In her conversation with Standout Arts, Fisk reflected on her early start in historic education, her time at Colonial Williamsburg, and her management experience in Pennsylvania and Maryland. At the Frontier Culture Museum, she leads a talented group of interpreters dedicated to research, accuracy, and storytelling that connects visitors to Virginia’s rich cultural history. Fisk’s philosophy centers on advocacy for her staff and continuous learning, ensuring that both the interpreters and the stories they share continue to grow and inspire.

Tom Fechtel, treasurer of the American Frontier Culture Foundation, shared his journey to board service and his perspective on the Foundation’s role in supporting the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia. With a background in finance at Coca-Cola and teaching business at Bridgewater College, Fechtel has contributed his expertise to the Foundation for about a decade. He views the board as a working group dedicated to advancing the Museum’s mission through fundraising and community support. Fechtel credits strong partnerships for the Museum’s growth and sees the upcoming American Journey Gallery as a significant step in expanding educational opportunities and attracting more visitors. Calling the Museum “a little gem,” he believes it plays a vital role in Staunton’s future and is proud to help ensure its success.

Since 1988, the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia has illustrated how European, African, and Indigenous practices merged to shape American life...and its programs can leave a lasting mark. Environmental educator Meredith McCool traces her career back to childhood days spent mixing clay and exploring the museum’s farms, experiences she says “fueled the spark” that led to degrees in geology and education, work in Alaska, and the launch of her own stewardship programs at Sunshine Springs Farm.

The Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia has received the prestigious 2025 Preserving America Grant from Americana Corner to enhance its 1820s and 1850s American Farm exhibits with 15 permanent interpretive signs. These signs, slated for installation later this year, will include historical photographs and cultural context, highlighting how these farmsteads reflect America’s transformation after the Revolutionary War. Read More...

Emily Noble Day Summer Camp Scholarship Fund

Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.