SAA Committee Member Highlights: Jennifer Motszko

This post is from Jennifer Motszko of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Jennifer is the chair of the SAA Membership Committee, 2020-2021.

Jennifer, what drew you to archives?
I have always been interested in history and planned to make that my career in some way. As I was working towards my masters degree in History at UW-Milwaukee, I was hired for a work-study position in the Archives. That’s what did it for me! Doing research, answering reference requests, processing collections, creating exhibits. I loved every part of my job and knew that I wanted to be an archivist. I decided to get a degree in Library Science and the rest is history.

Why did you get involved with the Committee or Subcommittee?
I volunteered for the Membership Committee as a way to get more involved in SAA. I felt a little lost trying to navigate the organization and thought volunteering would give me an opportunity to understand how SAA functioned. Also, I wanted to meet more people in the profession outside of my own archives. Serving on a committee is a wonderful way to become embedded in SAA, learn about and take advantage of all the resources at your disposal, and find colleagues and friends.

What’s your favorite thing about your work on the Committee or Subcommittee?
My favorite thing about working with the Membership Committee is the dedicated individuals in the group. Each and everyone on the committee wants members to be aware of and take advantage of the resources SAA provides to its members. They continue to develop unique ways to connect with both new and existing members. The Career Services Commons is just one example of a product that evolved from the requests of SAA members and the brilliant ideas of committee members.

What do you wish SAA members knew about your Committee or Subcommittee or its work?
I hope that SAA members know that the Membership Committee is here for all members. We want to help SAA provide resources and create a welcoming environment for a diverse membership. If you have ideas about how the Membership Committee could better serve your needs, please reach out to us!