Kassandra Merryfield, the CSPM March Volunteer of the Month, has dedicated 6 years of service to the museum! Kassandra has taken on a variety of roles over the years, demonstrating her extensive skills, passion for local history, and flexibility. She first began as a front desk volunteer and has since been leading school programs and supporting youth and family events, such as our fall Night at the Museum program.
Kassandra’s favorite story from local history is the life of our city’s founder, General William Jackson Palmer, “I have a lot in common with the man as I myself suffer from a spinal cord injury, same as him. He was a man so wise beyond his years & so ahead of his time. He made it easier for people like me to live my life.”
The first time I saw Kassandra present our "City of Sunshine" activity to a group of students on a school field trip, I was blown away by her natural ability to connect with the kids and share stories. She has been such a tremendous addition to our school program team. More recently, she has even taken on more responsibility by leading our chaperone introduction. We cannot thank her enough for everything she has done for the museum!
Kassandra shared what drives her to give back and volunteer in her community, “Due to the physical limitations of my disability, certain career paths were not an option to follow, but I am great with kids and have a passion for history.” She also appreciates that this is a place where she can learn more about her ancestors.
When asked about her time with the museum, Kassandra shared, “My most special memory is when my service dog, Lucy, passed away. The entire staff signed a very sweet condolence card for me. I treasure it.”
“Life outside the museum is busy!” Kassandra runs a local historical society, volunteers for the Girl Scouts, NSDAR, her high school booster club, NMDR, Rock Ledge Ranch, Glen Eryie Castle, Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care, Wreaths Across America, and more. Kassandra is very close to her family and is “so grateful to have a family that supports me in all that I do.” She also stays busy with hobbies, including reading, diamond art, and spending time with her nieces & nephew as the “fun aunt”!