Cynthia Armes

This Strategic Plan outlines the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' (DNCR) direction for 2025-2029, aiming to enrich lives through education and stewardship of North Carolina's natural and cultural resources. The plan is structured around five key goals: expanding educational excellence and supporting workforce pathways; strengthening local economies by leveraging DNCR sites; preserving, enhancing, and expanding access to natural and cultural resources; improving operational efficiencies, collaboration, and customer service; and supporting Western North Carolina's recovery from Hurricane Helene while integrating climate resilience. These goals are aligned with Governor Josh Stein's priorities, including Economic Opportunity, Excellent Public Schools, Healthier People, Safe Communities, Helene Recovery, and Quality Services.

The 2013-2022 State Historic Preservation Plan for the State of North Carolina aims to support the identification, protection, and enhancement of the State's historic resources. The plan focuses on providing incentives and technical assistance to citizens, private organizations, and public agencies. The vision is to ensure stewardship of the State's history and promote economic growth and a better future through collaborative efforts.

The North Carolina Historical Commission met to discuss several key items. The commission discussed accessions and deaccessions of items in state collections, including a motion to defer action on specific items until the March 2024 meeting for further context. They continued a discussion about resolutions pertaining to advocacy for teaching history in North Carolina schools, forming a committee to focus on raising awareness of history's importance. The committee will review the commission's charter, assess its role in promoting North Carolina history, and recommend actions to enhance public appreciation. Reports were given from division directors, highlighting ongoing projects and developments within the Archives and History divisions.

The Strategic Plan for the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) focuses on managing, promoting, and enhancing North Carolina's arts, culture, history, and natural areas. The plan is anchored around Governor Cooper's priorities, including creating new jobs, fostering economic growth, strengthening education and workforce development, promoting healthier and safer communities, advancing equity and diversity, and ensuring effective state government. Key goals include expanding educational opportunities, boosting economic growth, preserving natural and cultural resources, promoting diversity and cultural inclusion, and evaluating the impact of climate change. The department aims to provide high-quality non-formal education programs, boost workforce development and rural economies, build community resilience, strengthen public health, and improve the overall quality of life across North Carolina through collaborative partnerships.

The meeting addressed accessions and deaccessions of items in state collections, including those from the North Carolina Museum of History, North Carolina Maritime Museums, and the Division of State Historic Sites and Properties. Deaccessions from the State Archives were also reviewed. A significant portion of the meeting involved a discussion on resolutions advocating for history education in North Carolina schools and improved compensation and retention efforts for DNCR employees. The discussion included suggestions for engaging various communities, leveraging the America250 program, and improving communication about the importance and relevance of history. An update was provided on the status of the Pasquotank legal matter, and a deputy secretary's report highlighted ongoing projects and staffing updates.