Michael Sweeney is passionate about state and local history and the power it has to establish common bonds and bring folks together. He shares this passion as the Missouri State Bicentennial Coordinator for The State Historical Society of Missouri (SHSMO). The Missouri Bicentennial provides an occasion for celebrating and exploring the rich history and culture of Missouri while enjoying it in the present and looking forward to the future.

A lifelong history buff with a breadth of experience and knowledge, Michael is perfectly positioned to spearhead Missouri Bicentennial efforts. He grew up in Kansas City, Missouri and was interested in a career in academia from an early age. He earned a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Missouri before earning a doctorate in American studies from the University of Kansas. His education and interests led him to positions including staff historian and senior research specialist at the Kansas City Research Center and director of collections at the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City before rejoining SHSMO to lead Missouri Bicentennial efforts. In addition to planning this year’s celebration, Michael remains interested in academia and identifying common bonds between individuals and communities alike.

Hear Michael and Cliff’s thoughts on the power of market research and the role it has played in the Missouri Bicentennial, as well as the extensive planning that set the foundation for Missouri Bicentennial events and activities. They’ll also discuss diversity in Missouri and across rural America and the importance of common bonds to build connections.

What you'll learn:

• How the Missouri Bicentennial team leveraged the power of market research to strategically develop and position Missouri’s Bicentennial celebration
• An inside look at the extensive planning required to make the Missouri Bicentennial celebration a success and tips you can implement for your next event
• The importance of understanding your audience and how Michael and his team are working to engage individuals across the state
• Insight into the activities and events planned for the Missouri Bicentennial and how you can be a part of the celebration
• Unique stories and examples from Michael from the process of planning this year’s celebration
• Michael’s thoughts on the importance of giving people the option to participate in a way that is easy and exciting for them
• The importance of building bridges every step of the way and how to leverage those connections for mutual benefit
• More on diversity in Missouri and across rural America and the common bonds found throughout