Tom Fechtel serves as treasurer of the American Frontier Culture Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia. He spoke with marketing firm, Standout Arts, about his path to the board, the Foundation’s role, and what he sees ahead for the Museum.
Fechtel says he “fell into” board service after moving to Staunton with his wife. Early friends and neighbors introduced them to the Museum and the Foundation, and a board member later encouraged him to consider serving. That conversation made clear the expectation was for a working board, not just a giving board, which appealed to him. He volunteered and has now served for about a decade.
With a long career on the financial side at Coca-Cola, 12 years teaching at Bridgewater College’s School of Business, and an MBA, Fechtel naturally gravitated to the finance committee. As he jokes, the degree “means I could add two and two and get four most of the time.” “We can’t all give the financial gifts that make their day, so we work for them. And that's why our relationships with the Museum's supporters are so important.”
Over his tenure, he has watched the Foundation and Museum grow into a strong partnership. He describes the relationship as “working hand in glove,” and credits his predecessor for helping build that alignment. In his view, the Foundation serves primarily as the Museum’s fundraising arm and exists to advance the Museum’s mission in every way it can. “We, as the board, are here for one reason and that is to promote the Museum and do everything we can to make sure that the Museum is successful.”
Fechtel calls the Museum “a little gem” and expects the new American Journey Gallery to broaden its reach. He believes the gallery will strengthen student learning experiences supported by the Foundation’s Trailblazers Field Trip program and draw additional visitors to Staunton.
Asked what the Museum means to him, Fechtel says it has become increasingly important over the years. He sees the Museum as a key contributor to Staunton’s future and wants to continue supporting that progress. “I think the future looks bright for both the Museum and the town. I'm glad to be a part of that in any way I can.”
To learn more about the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia, visit frontiermuseum.org. To learn more about the American Frontier Culture Foundation, visit frontierculturefoundation.org
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