John earned his BA in history with honors at Western State College of Colorado (currently known as Western State Colorado University) in Gunnison, Colorado, in December 1997. During his undergraduate studies he made new scholarly discoveries providing further insights into the U.S. intervention into Russia 1918-1920, and continues his research through exhibits and presentations.
Furthermore, at NMSU Versluis served as a Co-Principal Investigator for the Lunar Legacy Project, which is one of the earliest federally grant-funded space archaeological research projects, through the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium in 1999. NASA funded the Lunar Legacy Project to document the artifacts on the lunar surface at Tranquility Base by the Apollo 11 crew, and to investigate the relevant US Federal preservation laws and regulations.
He served as the Director of the Greater Southwest Historical Museum, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, from 2003-2005, and the Director of the North Platte Valley Museum (currently known as Legacy of the Plains Museum) in Gering, Nebraska from 2000-2003, and received his museum training at New Mexico State University where he earned his MA in American History / Public History Graduate Program in 2000. At NMSU he became a recipient of the Doña Ana Historical Society Pasajero Del Camino Real award for co-authoring Historic Architectural Styles Las Cruces, N.M.: Celebrating 150 Years.
Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.
As part of the management of the department, Curators are accountable to the Director of Curatorial Operations & Research (DCO&R) to meet deadlines that ensure curatorial projects remain on schedule. The DCO&R reports to the Director & CEO and represents the Curatorial Department as a member of the Museum’s Senior Staff. The DCO&R is the Curators’ strategic partner, working alongside them, and leading the museum’s registrars and installers to realize visionary, research-driven curatorial projects, and programs.
The Harold and Anne Berkley Smith Senior Curator of American and European Art will demonstrate in-depth knowledge of European art from 1300 – 1945 and American art from the beginnings of European settlement in the Americas to 1945 and be able to propose acquisitions that will enhance the museum’s collection in this area. They will also be critical in introducing those works to the Norton’s Works of Art Committee (WoAC) in their oversight of acquisitions.
The Harold and Anne Berkley Smith Senior Curator of American and European Art will collaborate with the Director & CEO, Chief Development Officer, and colleagues in Development to generate financial support of European and American art through donor visits and grant and foundation applications, as well as develop, expand, and sustain the Friends of American Art (FoAA), one of four collector groups at the Norton that consist of sophisticated collectors and enthusiasts who expect appealing programming that engages the vast and significant group of collectors in this community.
Museum curator was considered to be one of the fastest growing jobs in 2010. While they may not be hiring for millions of openings, there is a considerable need to find well trained and able individuals to handle the daily tasks of the museums and galleries across the country.
When you apply for a museum curator job, your personality is going to play a strong role in getting hired. The museum/company will want to see that you are intelligent and educated, with a passion for the works that you will be showcasing. You should also expect specific questions about both your history in choosing the field and some of your experiences visiting museums. They are going to want to know that you have a passion for the industry, and did not simply take on this work just to find a job.
In general, you should expect a lot of general interview questions about your work experiences, skills and education. Still, there are several possible specific museum curator interview questions you may face.