About the role#
The Community Engagement Program Intern supports the development and delivery of public programs that center the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of Black communities in Minnesota. A primary focus of this role is supporting a project working with the descendants of the Fergus Falls First 85, a community of Black families who settled in Minnesota in the late 19th century. This position provides experience in museum education, community engagement, historical research, and program coordination.
What you'll do#
- Research topics related to Black history in Minnesota, including migration, civil rights, arts, business, and community leadership.
- Support the planning and implementation of lectures, panel discussions, workshops, walking tours, exhibitions, and community conversations.
- Draft program descriptions, educational materials, and promotional content.
- Conduct archival and secondary-source research.
- Contribute to blog posts, social media content, and interpretive materials.
- Develop audience guides and resource lists highlighting Black Minnesotan history.
- Perform outreach to local community organizations, educators, artists, and cultural leaders.
- Attend planning meetings with community partners.
- Ensure programs reflect inclusive and community-informed perspectives.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student, or graduation within the past 12 months.
- A degree or progress toward a degree in History, African American Studies, Public History, Ethnic Studies, Museum Studies, or a related field.
- Strong research, writing, and communication skills.
- An interest in Black history and community-centered historical work.
- Basic cultural competence when working with Black communities.
- A proactive approach and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Enthusiasm for working in a front-facing position.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including being empathetic, organized, adaptive, and creative.
Location & details#
- This is a part-time, temporary position running from approximately January 19, 2027, to May 23, 2027.
- The role is based in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a hybrid work modality.
- Interns are expected to work 10 hours per week, with 1 to 2 days spent in person.
- Participation is required in three in-person professional development seminars and a final presentation on May 23, 2027.
- This position is paid at $17.02 per hour.
About Minnesota Historical Society
The Minnesota Historical Society is a nonprofit educational and cultural institution based in Saint Paul. Founded in 1849, the organization maintains museum exhibits, libraries, and historic sites. It employs 524 people to manage collections and publish books. The society focuses on preserving the history of Minnesota.
How to get in at Minnesota Historical Society
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