Governance

CH Commission

The Culture and Heritage Commission (Commission) is York County’s appointed governing board for the Culture & Heritage Museums (CHM), the entity that operates York County-owned cultural resources. The Commission carries out its governance responsibilities through a Director, hired to manage the operations of CHM and its professional staff.

The Commission’s role is critical in providing oversight and guidance as we plan for the future, manage the present and honor the past. Our board is a York County Commission comprised of 7 Commissioners who are appointed by the County Council and who volunteer their time, expertise and energy to guide this organization.

CHC documents available upon request.
Call 803-909-7268 or email dscholler@chmuseums.org

Commissioners

• District 1:  Penny Sheppard, Chair
• District 2:  Ed Stewart, Secretary/Treasurer
• District 3:  David Duncan, Vice Chair
• District 4:  Jeff Lyon
 • District 5:  Margaret Crawford Parson-Willins
 • District 6:  Annie Laurie Wheat 
 • District 7:  Katherine Williams 

• Katie Rutland, ex-officio
• Dr. Edward Lee, ex-officio

Meetings

All Culture & Heritage Commission meetings are open to the public and are held at the Museum of York County unless otherwise noticed.

Mission

To communicate and preserve the natural and culture histories of the Carolina Piedmont, inspiring a lifetime of learning.

Vision

To create a community that greatly values natural, historic, and cultural resources.

Values

  1. Authenticity: We ensure that the knowledge that we share is accurate and supported through credible documentation or eyewitness accounts.
  2. Professionalism: We adhere to best practices of the museum field in the care of resources under our stewardship.
  3. Meaningful Visitor Experiences: We strive to create memorable experiences enabling those we serve to walk away from our museums not only with new information but with inspiration that they will carry with them throughout their lives.
  4. Respect for those we represent: As a cultural museum we tell the story of people from various backgrounds and life experiences both past and present. We have an obligation to tell their stories in a fair and balanced manner that fosters greater understanding of their unique perspectives.
  5. Respect for our Natural World: As a natural history museum we have a responsibility to show respect for the natural world and to lead by example.
  6. Transparency: We ensure our organizational meetings, documents, and records beyond those that pertain to our legal requirements or breach the trust of our donors are available to the public.
  7. Stewardship: We recognize that all of our assets are held on behalf of the public good and that it is our responsibility to ensure that they are used wisely.
  8. Donor Rights: We believe all donors should be valued and informed. Promises should be delivered and expectations of confidentiality should be met to the fullest extent of the law.

    Adopted by the Culture and Heritage Commission on July 23, 2012