Alumni Spotlight: Rebecca Dickman

Rebecca Dickman graduated from Iowa State in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in history and sociology. While at Iowa State, she participated in the History Club and worked in Special Collections and University Archives. She then attended the University of Kansas and graduated with a master’s degree in museum studies in 2016.

“I’ve worked as the curator of the Amana Heritage Society in the Amana Colonies (Iowa) for the past four years. The Amana Society was one of the longest-running communal societies in American history, existing from 1843-1932. In the 1930s, the society transitioned into a profit-sharing corporation and Amana’s reputation as a tourist destination grew.

“The Amana Heritage Society operates five historic sites throughout the seven villages. As curator, I manage the archive, artifact, library, and photograph collections. I create exhibits and respond to researchers’ requests. Since I’m one of only two full-time staff members, I wear a lot of hats. My job includes maintaining the website and social media accounts, doing graphic design work, and writing grant proposals. I enjoy my job because I never know what each day will bring.”