Derven Scholars
This program honors the legacy of Daphne L. Derven, whose educational vision and commitment to outreach continues to inspire staff and students at THNOC. Applications for Spring 2024 will be accepted from high school students entering their senior year or currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students with a passion for historical research and an interest in a career in museum education.
The Spring 2024 Derven Scholar will work with THNOC education staff to plan, create, and facilitate educational programs or develop resources that can be used in K-12 classrooms. The Scholar will participate in a hybrid program that combines virtual and in-person experiences. Mentorship and career chats with THNOC staff are woven through this summer-long internship.
Applications for the Spring 2024 program will open Monday, December 4 2023 and close Friday, January 5, 2024.
Who can apply?
Currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students are eligible, as well as high school students entering their senior year. We look for applicants who demonstrate a passion for history, education, and/or museums in their academic or volunteer work.
When is the internship?
Spring 2024 Derven Scholars will begin with an in-person orientation at THNOC in mid-January 2024 and complete their internship by April 2024. We work with each student to determine a schedule that works best for their academic commitments.
Is there a stipend?
Yes! Each Derven Scholar receives a $1500 total stipend as part of this program. This stipend can be awarded in monthly installments or in a single payment at the end of the internship.
What is the time commitment?
Derven Scholars are expected to devote about 10 hours each week to this position. These hours can include meetings, career conversations with staff, independent research, and time supporting Education programs. Because this is a hybrid experience, Scholars are expected to commit to 3-4 hours each week onsite at the museum on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays.
What questions are part of the application?
We're so glad you asked! In addition to general questions (your school, your major, etc.), students are required to answer the following question as part of their application:
What aspect of Louisiana history are you most passionate about? Is there a topic that you wish more people knew about?
What excites you about museum education? Do you have any experience sharing history with others?
What is your dream job?
Why are you interested in an internship with The Historic New Orleans Collection?
Questions? Email THNOC's Education Department.
Past Derven Scholars
2023
- Anna Rodriguez, University of New Orleans
- Emily Goldsmith, University of Southern Mississippi
- Janel Blessing, Loyola University New Orleans, A Literary Tour of New Orleans
2022
- Lauren Smith, University of New Orleans
- Chloe Walley, The NET Gentilly/NOCCA
- Landon Bishop, St. Augustine High School
- Abigail Hu, Benjamin Franklin High School
- Leing Rochez, Booker T. Washington High School
- Lauren Ejiaga, Benjamin Franklin High School
2021
- Danielle Buckingham, University of Mississippi
- Sasha Doster, University of Florida
- Carolyn Rice, Johns Hopkins University
- Marie Sarnacki, Eastern Michigan University
- Norman Storer Corrada, George Washington University
- Shine Trabucco, University of Houston
- Julia Walsh, Southern University at New Orleans
- Lerin Williams, Tulane University
2020
- Shelby Lanoux, Mount Carmel Academy
- Chayla Wolfberg, Tulane University
2019
- Emily Buttita, Tulane University
- Hera Bagdanos, Loyola University New Orleans
- Mariah Bledsoe, Carver College Prep