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College of Education: Belin-Blank Center

Challenges for Elementary School Students (CHESS)

Iowa City Session 1 - June 16-27, 2008

Old Capitol—Iowa's Historic Treasure - 9 am-12 pm

Spend time in Old Capitol, where this course will be held.  Take a trip through the history of Iowa. Use quill pens to write the constitution…

and keep a unique journal.  Make a basic camera to take photographs. Go on an architectural tour of Iowa City.  Learn how Iowa became one of the leading states in the nation and think about important issues.  Find out what really happened in the historic Old Capitol House Chamber.  Experience Iowa’s exciting history through critical deliberation, acting, and hands-on art activities. Participants must be ready to have fun! 

Instructor

Kathrine MoermondKathrine Moermond was born and raised in Eastern Iowa.  She attended Iowa State University, Ames, where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Art and Design in 2004 with an emphasis in photography.  After volunteering and working with the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art in 2005, Kathrine began to pursue her Museum Studies instruction at the University of Iowa.  She currently plans special programs and coordinates events for the Old Capitol Museum as the Education and Outreach Coordinator. In her spare time she enjoys playing the cello, painting, traveling, and visiting a variety of museums.



Shalla WilsonShalla Wilson graduated with a BA in History and Minors in Religion and Music from the University of Iowa in 1995. While pursuing studies, she began work the Old Capitol Museum in 1992. Her keen knowledge of and interest in Iowa history prompted staff to hire her as Old Capitol’s Assistant Director in 1996. During this time, she helped develop educational exhibits and managed events. Old Capitol’s community activities halted in 2001, when a fire destroyed the tower. Shalla remained the sole trustee of Old Capitol during its renovation. Shalla became the Museum’s Curator in 2006, safeguarding artifacts, conducting research, and overseeing tours. In 2007, the University of Iowa decided to join the working staff of the Museum of Natural History and the Old Capitol Museum. At this time, Shalla became the Assistant Director for the Pentacrest Museums. She is currently working on a Master's in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma. Shalla is also a member of DAR, and serves as Iowa City's Pilgrim Chapter Regent.