The McClung Student Advisory Board (MSAB) plays a critical leadership role for the museum by serving as a liaison for UT’s student community. Members are chosen through an application process.
Applications will open in the beginning of Spring 2024. Keep an eye on our socials for updates!
Review the Board’s Constitution (Updated Spring 2023).
Follow our Instagram to stay up-to-date on MSAB events & McClung happenings!
Current Executive Board
Sean Burke
(he/him)
Senior, College Scholars: Museum Accessibility
The McClung Museum Student Advisory Board gave me direction at a time that I needed it most. I knew I wanted to work with museums in some capacity, but I had no idea how museums worked, let alone much of an idea of what they did outside of putting on exhibitions. The board provided me an opportunity to explore the world of museum professionals without needing to be thrust right into the harsh reality of museum work. With the help of the members of the MSAB and a few McClung Museum employees, I’ve both found a place I belong and realized by future aspirations, something I hope we can do for future members.
Lauren Malone
(they/she)
Senior, Anthropology
I joined the board because I wanted to be a part of the educational journey that museums provide. For academics and the general public alike, museums open the door to new ideas, innovations, histories, and life experiences. Being alongside other students that share my passion for the McClung and the museum world as a whole is going to be a great opportunity to make connections and begin shaping our journey in this field. I am very excited to be part of such a wonderful team who want to share with others the importance museums like the McClung have on our communities. What I love most about the McClung is that it has such a wide array of exhibits that can reach all sorts of different audiences and interests. No matter if you are a student, tourist to Knoxville, or general community member, there is bound to be something that the McClung highlights in its collections that will leave you in awe.
Anna Parrish
(she/her)
Senior, Anthropology: Forensic Concentration
Hello my name is Anna, and I am currently in my Senior year. I have been lucky enough to have many classes in the McClung Museum. The moment I stepped into the museum for the first time I was amazed at all the exhibits, knowledge, fun, and creativity that the museum holds. Being a part of MSAB allows me to give back to the museum that has given so much to me.
Annie Platillero
(she/they)
Junior, Anthropology
During my experience on the McClung Museum Student Advisory Board, I have moved from being a scared freshman, just having classes at the McClung, to a passionate member of the board and a lover of museums. The McClung and its staff caught my interest, and they have not disappointed. Working on events and fundraising with my committee has helped me understand my career path and connect with those who have similar interests. The board has helped me connect with the community of Knoxville and provide events to visitors from all over the world. This community I became a part of is supportive and informative, and I have learned a lot about myself, the museum field, and opportunities for after college.
Zoe Bear
(she/her)
Junior, Anthropology
I joined the board because I wanted to surround myself with like-minded people who share my love for the McClung and for museums as a whole. Becoming a member of MSAB has solidified my love for museums and given me the opportunity to explore the many facets of museum work. I am so glad to be part of a group of people who appreciate the McClung and want to give back to the community.
McKenzie Rider
(she/her)
Junior, History
As a transfer student, I longed to find students with the same interests and like-mindedness as me. Joining MSAB offered that community and has expanded my knowledge of museums. Through MSAB, I hope to reach others who share my passion surrounding museum work. I hope to continue learning more about museums and myself as my time on MSAB continues!
Graduate Advisor
Alex Miller (they/she)
GA of Academic Programs
MSIS Graduate Student
Museum Staff Liaison
Katy Malone (she/her)
Curator of Academic Programs
Lauren Malone, MSAB Vice Chair, volunteering at Can You Dig It?