A Warm Send-Off to FAM Vice President of Programs and Interpretations, Dr. Gaila Sims

Fredericksburg, VA (June 9, 2025) - After three years of dedicated service, Dr. Gaila Sims is moving on from her official role at the Fredericksburg Area Museum effective Friday, August 1. Gaila first joined FAM as Curator of African American History and Special Projects and most recently has served as our Vice President of Programs and Interpretation. Dr. Sims will remain in the area but will be pursuing her passion in academia. A statement from her reads:

"I love this museum and community so much, and I am incredibly proud of the work we've done in partnership with the City of Fredericksburg over the last several years. I am in awe of the history and community in this place and so grateful for every project, every conversation, and every experience I've been able to have here. The opening of Living Legacies presented me with a natural time to step away and pursue some other projects; I intend to focus on writing my book for the next several months, and then I'll get to fulfill another dream; teaching. I've always wanted to teach at a community college, and I've loved working with Germanna so much, so I'm thrilled to share I'll be teaching a course on African American history at Germanna this Fall."

Under her leadership, FAMs collaboration with the City of Fredericksburg in interpreting African American history has been transformed. Dr. Sims has completed numerous projects including a new exhibit on the Auction Block, new wayside historic panels throughout the city, a new African American history brochure, exhibits on the Marquis de Lafayette and her capstone project, Living Legacies: African American history in the Fredericksburg Area.

While she is stepping back from her duties, FAM will continue to contract with Dr. Sims on special projects including the upcoming exhibit at the former location of the Auction Block on the corner of William and Charles Streets. CEO Sam McKelvey said of her departure, "While we are saddened to see her go, Dr. Gaila Sims impact will continue to be large in Fredericksburg, and we look forward to working with her while she pursues academic passions."

The Fredericksburg Area Museum will begin an immediate search to fill the important role of Curator of African American History. 

Join us as we recognize Gaila's impact on the entire community and wish her well in her future endeavors.