From the Marine Corps to museum studies, recent graduate and CCAS alumna Casey Walsh, M.A. ‘25, tells us about her role as a curator for the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in South Dakota, sharing the history and culture of the Lakota Nation.
“Telling the stories of the past and how they intertwine with the present is so rewarding. It is incredibly important to share the stories of generations of activism and resistance, and I have a duty to uplift these voices for all to learn from.”
Casey Walsh
M.A. ‘25
Where did you grow up and how has your background influenced you today?
I was born and raised in South Euclid, Ohio (a suburb of Cleveland) and left the state at the ripe age of 18 when I enlisted in the Marine Corps. I served for four honorable years before discharging and embarking on my educational journey. After five years of continuous schooling, I received my bachelor's in history from American University and my master's in museum studies from George Washington University. The determination, and discipline I honed through my time in service with the Marines helped me achieve a goal I thought I never could–being the first college graduate of my family.
Tell us about your current professional role and how it excites you.
I am the curator of a small museum in southeast South Dakota called the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center. It focuses on the history and culture of the Lakota Nation. I am honored to be the caregiver and protector of these artifacts and incredibly important history. Telling the stories of the past and how they intertwine with the present is so rewarding. It is incredibly important to share the stories of generations of activism and resistance, and I have a duty to uplift these voices for all to learn from.
What accomplishment are you most proud of personally or professionally and why?
Personally, I am proud of my military service, and I am proud of my educational success. Being the first in my family to not only graduate college but to also receive my master's degree is something I am incredibly proud of. Professionally, being the sole museum professional at the museum I work at is a challenge, but I know I have the capability and the knowledge to be successful here, and for that I am very proud that I have this position.
What is your only-at-GW moment? In other words, what is an experience/opportunity you believe GW provided you access to?
Being able to see the behind the scenes of the Smithsonians. Seeing the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) cultural resources center was incredible, and I still reference their practices at my job today.
What is a piece of advice you would offer to students seeking to pursue your field of work?
Network! Don't be scared to reach out to someone in the field–at one point they were a student themselves, afraid to network with someone who has been in the field for some time. They are your greatest resource! Take advantage of every opportunity to advance your resume that you can. When given the chance to apply for an internship, do it!