Originally from Michigan, Kristin relocated to the Imperial Valley Desert from North Carolina in 2019.  Kristin's background is in the Civil War era. Her research focused on German American immigrants in the antebellum South and their role in Southern society during that period. She received her Master’s degree in History from East Carolina University in 2020. 

She believes strongly in facilitating history outside of academia and increasing the accessibility of history to the public. In her role as the Executive Director, Kristin will be innovating new and exciting exhibits about the history and cultures of the Valley, as well as working behind-the-scenes to preserve its history.

On her days off, you might find Kristin going for a run around town or hiking and exploring our Yuha Desert. You can contact her at info@ivdesertmuseum.org.

Originally from Boston, MA, Claire comes to the Imperial Valley Desert from Ithaca, NY. A recent graduate of Cornell University, Claire found her love for public history and curation through volunteering and working at The History Center in Tompkins County. During her time there, she conducted archival research and co-curated exhibits on women’s history, the US census, and the local Asian diaspora, among others. In her work, she strives to make knowledge more accessible and highlight stories from underrepresented people and communities.

As IVDM’s Curatorial Research Fellow, Claire is excited to explore the nature, history, and culture of the Imperial Valley and learn from people in the community. You can contact Claire at curation@ivdesertmuseum.org.

A tiger at heart, Luis graduated from Imperial High School, in Imperial CA, in 2017. He is attending Imperial Valley College, where he is studying to be a mechanical engineer.  Luis has worked with the Imperial Valley Desert Museum since 2017 and is now serving as its Education Coordinator and Museum Manager.  From field trips, to public events, to special projects, Luis has experienced all aspects of IVDM and is dedicated in sharing his passion and energy with all students and guests to IVDM.

Luis is passionate about his work and has made it his mission to help local youth learn about the rich culture all around them. You can contact Luis at education@ivdesertmuseum.org.

Angelina has called Ocotillo home since she was seven years old, and growing up she always wondered when the Museum would open its doors. She graduated from Imperial High School in 2009, and went on to attend Grossmont College, where she graduated with an Associate in Arts degree in Social & Behavioral Sciences in 2014.

Angelina has taken multiple roles since her start at the Museum, and has overseen many education projects and programs. She is excited to see what the museum has next in store and to continue to be part of it. You can contact Angelina at education@ivdesertmuseum.org.

A proud, lifelong valley-dweller, Jacob enjoys sharing its stories and fascinating past with students and visitors alike. Jacob graduated from Central Union High School in 2018, received his Associates in Political Science from Imperial Valley College, and is now working on his Bachelors in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University. Jacob is dedicated to making history accessible and interesting to everyone the Museum engages with. You can contact Jacob at education@ivdesertmuseum.org.

Growing up in the valley, Camila is consistently fascinated about the origins and the nature surrounding our desert. Its creatures big and small have always caught her eye. She graduated from Southwest High School in 2021, and continued her journey at Imperial Valley College where she is studying to be an entomologist. Camila is eager in fulfilling the museum’s mission and goals to explore more ways in showcasing our valley’s history and culture. You can contact Camila at education@ivdesertmuseum.org.

Since Graduating from Southwest High School and attending Imperial Valley College ultimately working his way to UCLA and always maintaining a deep passion for history throughout his academic career. Which ultimately pushed him to pursue graduate study in history specializing in the medieval field. David's dream is to ultimately obtain a Ph.D. in medieval studies and become a professor. 

Although coming from a medieval history background. David always saw the importance in history education, leading him to IVDM. David is looking forward to working with the staff in creating fun and engaging activities to share the Imperial Valley's history with the community.