alumni reflections
This page gives alumni an opportunity to reflect and comment on their experience with CGP. Anyone who is interested should e-mail Catherine M. Raddatz with their comments, and if possible, a photo.
John Pentangelo
“CGP gave me the opportunity and support to become whatever kind of museum professional I wanted to be. I learned from remarkable professionals inside and outside of the classroom, worked on several exhibitions from planning to installation, developed and implemented educational programs for different audiences, and performed curatorial work with incredible artifact collections. More than that, I was challenged to make a difference. As curator of the USS Constellation Museum I use the skills and knowledge I obtained to not just help preserve an important part of our history but to help others understand why it is worth preserving. It's the best part of working in museums.”
Megan Wood
“After two years at CGP and a year of work at NYSHA as the Manager of Statewide Programs, I was able to move back to the mid-west to work for the Ohio Historical Society as the State Coordinator for National History Day in Ohio. My time and experiences at CGP really prepared me for the big and diverse world of museums. And everwhere I go, I meet fellow alumni. Next to the education, the network of professionals that CGP has provided me is priceless.”
Ryan Donaldson
“The Cooperstown Graduate Program (CGP) furnished me with a robust skill set and broad range of professional experiences. As a class, we coordinated large projects with local museums and historical societies. I became acquainted with producing both collections and furnishing plans, developing educational curriculum, and fabricating an exhibit on the bicentennial of Cooperstown’s incorporation. Now, as Archivist with the Durst Organization, a real estate development company in New York City, I apply many of the skills I was fortunate enough to gain thanks to my exceptional professors, NYSHA staff, and fellow students.”