The Nevada State Museum in Carson City introduces its new curator of anthropology: Dr. Anna Camp. Camp serves as only the third curator of anthropology in the 83-year history of the museum, and she is the first woman to assume the role. She succeeds Dr. Gene Hattori, who retired earlier this year after 24 years with the museum.
Camp previously served for six years as the museum’s tribal liaison and Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act lead. She has devoted her time at the museum to fostering better relations with tribal governments and populations of the state of Nevada and surrounding regions.
Camp hails from Quincy, and she received her associate degree in liberal arts at Feather River College. She then went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts in anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley and her master’s and doctorate degrees at the University of Nevada. Her research expertise is in Great Basin archaeology with a focus on Indigenous basketry and textiles.
With recent changes in federal legislation pertaining to how Native American collections are managed, exhibited and repatriated, Camp is prepared for running the anthropology department at the Nevada State Museum, said Museum Director Joshua Bonde. “Dr. Anna Camp has been beating the bushes for years, establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships with the tribal entities of the state of Nevada,” he said. “She is aware of the sensitivities surrounding Indigenous collections in our care and the concerns of the tribes. All the while she is able to still present original research. I can think of no one better suited to step into this pivotal role here at the Nevada State Museum.”
“It is an incredible honor to be the curator of anthropology,” said Camp. “I work with an amazing team of talented and intelligent people. We hope our enthusiasm and love for this place and the objects we care for is reflected in the work we do for the people of Nevada.”
Founded in 1939, the Nevada State Museum preserves the state’s history through unique and authentic educational experiences via its collections, exhibits, events and outreach activities. The knowledge of the staff’s archivists, scientists and historians provides leadership in heritage education that adheres to the highest standards of public-trust stewardship. More information is available at https://www.carsonnvmuseum.org/.
Information provided by Nevada State Museum
