Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced that Jenn Edginton will assume the role of director at the Illinois State Museum. Edginton has been serving as interim director since February 2023. She joined the museum in January 2021, initially taking on the position of director of interpretation.

Before her time at the Illinois State Museum, Edginton gained experience working with various institutions including the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, Naper Settlement, and the Kenosha Public Museum.

In addition to her museum roles, Edginton is active in several professional organizations. She serves on the Leadership Nominating Committee for the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) and is a member of the Illinois America 250 Commission. Her previous roles include chairing AASLH's education and interpretation subcommittee from 2022 to 2023 and advising on their 250 Field Guide. She also contributed to "Interpreting the Civil War at Museums and Historic Sites" by co-authoring a chapter.

Edginton holds a bachelor's degree in anthropology and a certificate in museum studies from Michigan State University. She earned her master's degree in education from the University of Kansas and completed a Doctorate of Education focusing on First Nations education at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay.

The Illinois State Museum is situated at 502 S. Spring St., offering free admission to visitors. It operates Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4:30 p.m.