EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Denise serves as the Executive Director for The Kansas African American Museum where she provides leadership by strategically focusing on the African American story. Using technology and innovative ideas, Ms. Sherman has retooled and upgraded educational programs for virtual/online access, developed new cultural awareness and enrichment programming in response to DE&I, social and political climates, as well as moderated and participated in panel discussions with community leaders regarding sensitive, relevant, and compelling issues and topics.Ms. Sherman credits her Master of Science in Organizational Development degree in reorganizing TKAAM to serve as a cultural hub for the State of Kansas.

CURATOR

Brittany Beck is the curator of collections and exhibits in charge of conducting research, cataloging projects, and responsible for acquisitions, interpretation and presentation of exhibitions. Born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, she received her bachelor’s degree at the University of Kansas and graduated with honors. Beginning at a young age, she frequented museums with her family, inspiring a life-long love of learning, history, and culture. She continued her post graduate education at Wichita State University where she completed her graduate certification in the Museum Studies program. Volunteering has been a large part of her experience as a curatorial assistant with various museums in the local community, starting with the Museum of World Treasures and most recently for three years at the Wichita Sedgwick County Historical Museum. Brittany is excited to continue serving the community, making the African American experience resonant with all Kansans.

MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER

Chauncey Wilson is a seasoned media and journalism professional with nearly two decades of experience. He excels in crafting visually compelling content and possess strong interpersonal communication skills. Thriving in high-pressure environments, Chauncey has made significant contributions to KTUL Channel 8 and KSN Channel 3, leaving his mark in local television news by being part of two Grammy winning projects. Beyond journalism, he brings valuable expertise in marketing content, along with a commitment to excellence and an enthusiastic mindset.
 
Chauncey’s talents extend beyond his professional achievements; he is also a dedicated father to three beautiful daughters and a devoted loving husband earning him the name “Greatest DAD Cab’ with his family and friends.

FACILITIES

Mr. Irving's extensive facilities experience, earned through years of dedicated service with USD 259, is the basis of the museum's beauty. He is the secret sauce behind the museum’s cool vibes that provide an enjoyable visitor experience. 

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Kay holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Wichita State University – Go Shox! Her passion for serving others drove her into the nonprofit sector, where she honed her skills in fundraising, event coordination, program development, volunteer administration, and marketing. Her leadership skills, strategic thinking, and results-oriented approach have made her a versatile professional. Beyond her nonprofit career, Kay has over a decade of experience as a competitive gymnastics coach, instilling values of confidence, humility, and ownership in her athletes.

Off duty, she enjoys her role as a proud fur momma to Nella, her lively Lab mix.

GIFT SHOP ASSISTANT 

Pam shares a special connection with TKAAM, as she attended and was baptized at this location when it was the Calvary Baptist Church, instilling in her a deep appreciation for its history and community. Bringing a wealth of experience from diverse roles at SER Progress National, the Wichita Workforce Center, and IPG, INC in Arlington, TX, Pam brings a blend of expertise in customer experience, ensuring every visitor feels valued and welcomed.

Off the clock, she finds fulfillment in her role as a loving mother to three sons and one goddaughter, and a proud grandmother to 14 grandchildren.

GIFT SHOP MANAGER

Sharon pursued her education through USD 259 and Wichita State University, earning both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she spent a decade in Washington, DC, where she worked for the National Institute of Health. After DC, her career led her to roles at WSU's Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs and The Physical Therapy Department before retiring from WSU.
 
In her free time, Sharon finds joy in reading, spending time with loved ones, traveling, and engaging in community service.

HISTORY TRAIL COORDINATOR

Ted Ayres is board immediate past president for The Kansas African American Museum in Wichita and serves on the executive committee and the audit committee of the Kansas Historical Society. An attorney, he retired as vice president and general counsel emeritus of Wichita State University and also served as general counsel to the Kansas Board of Regents and interim president of Pittsburg State University. He has participated on numerous other voluntary boards and is the recipient of several service awards.