Happy New Year from BSNM

Happy New Year Museum Friends, 

2022 was quite a year! In fact, so was the past three years.  We have all experienced remarkable and, at times, painful change, filled with highs and lows. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum was not immune from the impact as we struggled to sustain ourselves and remain relevant, like other museums locally, nationally and across the globe. This period of seismic change compelled us to be reflective about the museum and our role. That reflection resulted in fresh perspectives, an awakening and the opportunity to reinvent ourselves. 

As a leader, these experiences have pushed me to create space for reflection and be deliberate in reimagining the vision for museum in consideration of current state of the world. I have been inspired to explore strategies to increase our impact and be an active partner in ushering in positive change amidst the ever-growing concern and constantly changing social and political climate. What I have learned in this process is that it is important to be clear, calm, confident and just GO FOR IT. In this new year, you will begin to see the results. 

Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is growing and evolving, and I am honored and delighted to share some wonderful news with all of you. We began 2023 by adding three new team members to our small but mighty family: Brittany Jones as Special Events Coordinator, Dr. Michelle Tovar as Director of Education and Cale Carter II as Director of Exhibitions. I am elated to have such talented, dedicated and passionate men and women eager to advance our mission, educate our audience and expand our reach. 

We have only just begun. I’d like to personally invite you to join us on our Path Forward. There are various ways you can partner with us in our growth. Participate in a program, attend an event, stop by for a visit with family, friends or colleagues, volunteer your time, donate a monetary gift, join a museum committee, shop in our gift shop and confirm your enlistment in our member ranks by becoming a member. Rest assured, there is a place for you here at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. 

The future of the BSNM looks bright but it will be even brighter with you in it. I hope to see you soon.

As always, Ready and Forward

Desmond Bertrand-Pitts, CEO