Naomi Hemmerling

Note: This is one in a series of spotlights on MOI staff members who have been named a “Keefer Fellow,” a monthly program aimed at recognizing staffers for their contributions to the museum and the community. This month, our new custodian.

Q: Explain what you do at the museum in 20 words or less.

Naomi: As the custodian of the MOI, I’m responsible for all the trash disposal, cleaning, sanitizing, and upkeep of the building and facilities.

Q: What’s a museum-related accomplishment that you’re particularly proud of?

Naomi: When I first started working here, I deep cleaned the servery and continue to keep it clean and shiny for all volunteers and staff to enjoy! I also implemented new cleaning techniques for the stairwells, drinking fountains, and stained carpet areas.

Q: What do you do for fun?

Naomi: I have a 3-year-old German Shepherd named Maverick and I like to take him to parks and for “walkies.” In summer weather, I love to swim, bike, hike, and camp when I get the chance to. I also knit, crochet, and dabble in arts and crafts.

Q: What would you do for a career if you weren’t doing this (and if money were no object)?

Naomi: I’d be a writer or artist.

Q: What’s the weirdest / most interesting past job you’ve had?

Naomi: I worked as a journalist/columnist/photographer for my hometown newspaper, The Shelley Pioneer, until it became unsyndicated.

Q: Name a setback in your life that has ended up being a good thing.

Naomi: Moving back home from Washington after a break up. I never would have met my husband.

Q: What’s something – large or small, useful or not – that you’re really good at?

Naomi: I love to cook. And I’ve created several Pinterest-worthy dishes of my own!

Q: What were you like in high school?

Naomi: Good student, never dated, but had good times with good friends. I was a band geek and newspaper editor. I’ve always been a bit of an introvert, but once you knew me, I was a fun kid to be around!

Q: What’s your favorite book, movie, and TV show?

Naomi:

• Book – I don’t have a favorite title, but I enjoy mysteries and fiction
• Movie – too many favorites… I’m a big Harry Potter fan, tho!
• TV show – Family Guy, That ’70s Show, Bones

Q: Tell us something about you that might surprise us.

Naomi: I’m a drummer and percussionist and have been in a handful of local bands.