Bring the Smithsonian to South Carolina

Please support my fundraiser for South Carolina Humanities 

About This Campaign

The Museum on Main Street program brings high-quality Smithsonian exhibits to small towns and rural communities across South Carolina. Time and again, host sites and community members share the lasting impact these exhibits have—sparking new partnerships, inspiring local programming, and bringing people together through meaningful conversations and shared experiences. The Smithsonian is recognized around the world, which makes it especially powerful for communities that may not otherwise have access to these kinds of cultural and educational opportunities.

That’s why I’m proud to support bringing the Smithsonian’s "Americans" to communities across South Carolina through the Museum on Main Street program.

Why This Matters to Me

What does it mean to be American?

It’s a question that doesn’t have a single answer—and that’s exactly why it matters.

Americans invites people to explore identity through culture, history, and everyday life. It creates space for reflection and conversation in communities that may not often have access to national exhibitions like this.

In small towns across South Carolina, this exhibit will spark dialogue, connect people, and bring new perspectives into the community.

A Proven Program in South Carolina

Since 2008, this program has brought Smithsonian exhibitions to communities across our state.

I’ve seen how powerful that can be—how a national story becomes local, how people see themselves reflected, and how conversations begin.

Each stop is shaped by the community itself, making every experience unique and meaningful.

Why This Moment Matters

As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a rare opportunity to reflect on who we are as a nation.

But that reflection shouldn’t happen only in major cities or national institutions.

It should happen in communities across South Carolina.

That’s what this campaign makes possible.

Why I’m Giving

I’m supporting this effort because I believe in expanding access to ideas, stories, and shared experiences.

I believe every community deserves the opportunity to engage with this kind of exhibition.

And I believe that thoughtful conversation is essential to a strong and connected society.

Join Me

I’ve made my gift to help bring the Americans exhibit to South Carolina.

I hope you’ll consider joining me.

Your support during Midlands Gives helps make this possible—bringing a Smithsonian exhibition, and an important national conversation, to communities across our state.

Make your gift today and be part of this moment.