As we sail toward the close of another remarkable year aboard Midway, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your continued dedication, enthusiasm and support. Your commitment to embracing and sharing the Midway story, and your passion in experiencing all things Midway, keeps this ship alive with purpose and pride. I’m honored to now serve as part of that mission in my role as director of strategic partnerships and member development.
Many of you have come to know and admire Katie Andersen, who had been at the heart of Midway’s membership program for the past three years. Katie’s warmth, energy and tireless advocacy for you as Midway Members helped shape the strong sense-of-belonging and dynamic programming we have today. Now that she has embarked on her next adventure beyond the museum, I know you join me in wishing her every success and in carrying forward the spirit of fellowship she fostered here on Midway.
Stepping into this role now seven months in, my goal is simple: to continue building on that legacy while finding new ways to enhance your experience as members. In so doing, we want to grow your membership ranks. Whether it’s through additional exclusive events, new opportunities to engage with the museum’s educational and preservation initiatives, or extending your membership benefits to include access to other historic naval ship museums across the country, we are charting a bold course for 2026 and beyond.
I encourage you to help us expand your membership community. Invite a neighbor, friend or colleague to explore joining you along your journey of being a Midway member. To that end, look for an announcement soon regarding the ability to purchase membership gift certificates…tis the season!
We are currently vetting membership manager candidates to help steward the membership program moving forward. In the meantime, rest assured Karen Garst, Midway’s membership coordinator and Midway veteran liaison; Maureen “Mo” McGreevy, special events; and I remain committed to ensuring your experience as a member is exemplary. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us should you have questions or suggestions on what you’d like to see incorporated into membership program.
This year has already been full of unforgettable moments, including the members-only preview of our new exhibit “Top Secret: Inside the High-Stakes World of Naval Intelligence” over the summer and the new and exclusive “Lunch with Leadership” event for Captain and Admiral-level members this fall. The members-only Parade of Lights events during Midway’s Jingle Jets have fast become a new holiday family tradition. It’s never too early to start looking forward, though, so save the following dates on your calendars for some of the member events planned for 2026:
- Feb. 1-7 – Member Appreciation Week
- Feb. 5 – State of the Ship Dinner
- April 25 – Behind-the-Scenes Breakfast
- Aug. 8 – Annual Steel Beach Party
- Oct. 3 – Behind-the-Scenes Breakfast
- Nov. 13 – Lunch with Leadership (Captain & Admiral members)
- Dec. 13 – Parade of Lights
- Dec. 20 – Parade of Lights
It’s been a tremendous pleasure meeting some of you thus far. I look forward to meeting many more of you in the months ahead at Member events, on the flight deck, or simply in passing as we all continue to make Midway Magic together. Happy Holidays!
Wishing you health and happiness,
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