Hospitality | Tourism 2025: COLEMAN, CHRISTY S.

As head of the foundation administering two museums of early American history, Coleman is at the forefront of educators weaving a nuanced and inclusive story of American history.

She is the first woman and the first person of color to serve as executive director of the state agency that operates Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

Coleman hosts the Jamestown Settlement’s Director’s Series, now in its fourth year, leading conversations with figures such as journalist Michele Norris, a former host of National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered.” Other guests in the series include historians James Pepper Henry and Rick Atkinson. She also serves on the VA250 Commission, which is organizing the state’s commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary.

With more than 30 years of experience in museum work, Coleman received the 2023 David McCullough Prize for Excellence in American Public History for her work furthering the public’s understanding of American history.

Before joining the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, she was CEO of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond.

Coleman earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in museum studies from Hampton University.

Return to the full list of this category’s recipients.