Virginia Museum of Natural History

The meeting included an introduction of a new committee member, Richard Bratcher. Key discussion items involved advocacy efforts, specifically in-person outreach and letters to capital outlay committee members regarding the budget request, with preliminary decisions expected on February 22nd. Updates were provided on the trailer contract, which is signed and currently developing in-house exhibits for future use. Event planning included encouragement for attendance at an upcoming lecture on Virginia flora and planning for the Riverfest on May 2, 2026, where the mobile museum structure is intended for debut. A suggestion was made to initiate a monthly informal science topic meeting at a local venue, potentially borrowing an idea from the Elizabeth River Conservation group. During open discussion, the importance of garnering community support while subcommittees review priorities was emphasized.

The meeting initiated the new year and included the approval of previous minutes. Key discussions focused on the lecture series, which will feature a premiere video detailing the travels of a rubber duck from the South River headquarters to the Chesapeake Bay, in partnership with the South River Watershed Coalition. Updates were provided on ongoing facility renovations, with the expectation that work, including the addition of a skirt, will be completed in time for Riverfest. Interpretive signage projects for the South River Preserve and Sunset Park were mentioned. A significant portion of the meeting involved updates on legislative advocacy efforts following pre-legislative events. Discussions covered state budget status, noting that while general operational funds increased slightly, specific requests for entertainment funds were not met, although language regarding trailer maintenance was preserved. Challenges anticipated include Medicaid expansion and changes to the state funding allocation measurement system (rebenchmarking). Members discussed strategies to advocate for their capital project by engaging legislators, noting support from Delegate Campland, and coordinating constituent outreach.

The quarterly meeting addressed the welcoming of newly appointed trustees and the announcement of the slate of officers for the 2026-2027 term, noting a vacant secretary position. The museum's new Exhibits Manager introduced herself, and the Education Manager presented a deep dive on the benefits of using real science specimens for engagement. Key actions included the unanimous approval of the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan and the approval of bylaw clarifications concerning quorum. The Research and Collections report announced the hiring of a new herpetologist, Dr. Jackson Roberts, and noted Dr. Art Evans' transition off the Board. The Executive Director reported on legislative efforts to secure funding for the Waynesboro project, confirmed the museum is fully staffed, and noted the endowment funds are below six million dollars with a primary focus on developing a Young Explorers Center. Advancement reports indicated a 24% increase in giving and a 12% increase in museum revenue. A first reading of the 2026-2027 budget anticipated a modest expansion based on expected funding levels. The meeting concluded with an executive session entered for consultation with legal counsel regarding actual or probable litigation.

The meeting commenced after confirming quorum, noting the absence of one member due to a veterinary emergency and another member joining late due to a student exam. The committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the Waynesboro campus project progress, including advocacy efforts with the General Assembly for budget amendments, specifically seeking funding for working drawings ($3.5 million) or full construction funding. The Operations and Maintenance (OM) funding structure for the second year was clarified. Updates were provided on the trailer project, confirming the contract was signed with an expected completion in mid-April. Event planning was discussed, focusing on maximizing community connections, including planning for a science lecture on rare and unique plants of Augusta County and proposing a new 'science social' format, similar to those held by the Friends of the Elizabeth River group, potentially hosted at Basic City Brewery. The upcoming Riverfest and the conflict with the quarterly Board of Trustees meeting date were also noted.

Key discussions centered on community outreach, including the upcoming lecture series event featuring a film short about the South River and planning for two large May 2026 events, Riverfest and the Museum Rodeo. Progress updates were provided on trailer renovation, which is expected to be delivered with a skirt in the spring, and interpretive signage production. A report on meetings with legislators indicated discussions with delegates regarding funding for the Waynesboro facility. Regarding the State Budget, the Virginia Museum of Natural History (VMNH) was funded in the outgoing Governor's budget with modest increases but without additional requested funds. The committee engaged in strategic discussions regarding moving the Waynesboro project into the capital construction pool, focusing on developing tailored messaging for the General Assembly, emphasizing STEM education, and preparing working drawings costing less than $4 million of the total $36 million project.