Neecole Gregory's progression within the Morton Museum—from Visitor Services Coordinator to Director in two years—reflects her growth and the recognition she has received from her colleagues. In an interview with Collierville local news, she discussed her path from aspiring Egyptologist to her role in museum studies.
In a recent talk at the Tennessee Association of Museums (TAM) in Knoxville, Gregory, who also assumed the role of West Tennessee Vice President, discussed the challenges of maintaining a resilient and hopeful approach to museum management, particularly in a sector with high turnover rates. According to a statement from Collierville local news, her upcoming presentations at the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Academic Museums and Galleries will focus on reconnecting with African American narratives and advocating for paid internships, addressing important issues within the museum community.
Her stance on true representation in museums doesn't just skate on the surface. "I want to focus on strengthening relationships with all the communities that make up Collierville, making sure their histories are not only preserved in our collection but also reflected in our programming and exhibitions," Gregory told Collierville local news. Through engagement with Collierville's diverse communities, she works to ensure their stories are represented within the museum.
Gregory's plans for the Morton Museum include not only showcasing local history but also establishing it as a center for the training and development of future museum professionals. Through partnerships with local universities and cultural organizations, she aims to provide students and early-career professionals with practical experience to help them build careers in the field. Despite not being a local, her work in Collierville has become a deeply personal venture, "I’ve fallen deeply in love with the Morton Museum, Collierville, and the people who make this town what it is," Gregory said, according to the town's release.
Under Gregory's leadership, the Morton Museum is positioned to make a notable impact. Her goal is for the museum to continue serving as a source of inspiration and innovative storytelling beyond her tenure. As she stated, "My dream is for the work my team and I do to extend beyond us, ensuring that the Museum continues to thrive long after we’re gone," according to the Collierville local news. Gregory's influence is expected to extend beyond the Morton Museum to the broader field of cultural institutions.
