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New Churchill Museum director shares vision

When asked his vision for the National Churchill Museum, newly-appointed Director James Williams couldn’t give a short answer. His long list of ideas all possessed a common theme — extending the words and lessons of Winston Churchill to as many people as possible.

“There are so many people out there who admire — even love — Winston Churchill and we need to find ways to connect with them,” Williams said.

Williams, a 1986 Westminster College graduate, has returned to Fulton, taking over the position after Rob Havers left in April. He comes from Middle Tennessee State University where he was the director of the Albert Gore Research Center, which acts as an archival and educational organization as well as a museum, for six years. His duties included fundraising, program and grant writing and budget management. Williams was also a history professor at the university.

Educational programming is key in Williams’ vision to reach more people — young people in particular. Williams said he hopes to someday develop a curriculum for teachers and, because Churchill was a multi-faceted person, the topics can vary from politics and government and history to writing, music, art (Churchill was an avid painter) and even math (Williams used the example of students measuring the Church of St. Mary Alderbury).

Churchill’s personal story, which is outlined in the museum in depth, can serve as a life lesson as well, Williams added.

“For a ninth grader in Callaway County, the lesson can be about determination, adversity,” he said...

Read entire article at Fulton Sun