Gatekeeper of History: Preserving the Past, Engaging the Present

Join us as we talk with Karen Hayes! Karen is originally from Elizabeth City, North Carolina, and has a strong background in historic interpretation, community engagement and management. She obtained a B.S. in Economics and Finance, Management from Elizabeth City State University. Karen began her early career in public radio broadcasting and later diverted her attention to amplifying underrepresented voices and preserving cultural heritage at Somerset Place as a Historic Interpreter and Assistant Site Manager for ten years. Since 2008, Karen has been serving as the Historic Site Manager at Somerset Place State Historic Site and on various tourism committees. She is passionate about historic and cultural preservation and ensuring that all stories are being told and acknowledged for future generations. Stay up to date with Karen and Somerset Place: Website: www.historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/somerset-place Instagram: @somersetplaceshs