On Sept. 23, 2026, the Department of History and Philosophy, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Graduate School and the History Club sponsored the annual public history lecture in Stewart Hall.
Prior to the lecture, current students, alumni and faculty gathered at a reception in the Fashion Archives and Museum to reconnect and network with professionals in the public history field.
During the lecture, Christopher Gwinn, a 15-year veteran of the National Park Service, connected with students and discussed the variety of careers and opportunities within public history.
Gwinn, a 2008 master’s in applied history graduate, reflected on his experiences at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Antietam National Battlefield, Boston National Historical Park and Gettysburg National Military Park. He also addressed the challenges and controversies of interpreting history, how the past relates to the present and how to accurately and honestly present history to the public.
Furthermore, Gwinn shared his experiences serving as the chief of interpretation and education at Gettysburg National Military Park and chief of interpretation at Carlisle Barracks Indian Boarding School National Monument.
“It was incredibly impactful to hear Chris discuss his work as a leading professional in public history,” said Dr. Spicka, chair of the Department of History and Philosophy. “He provided important insights into both the challenges and the importance of interpreting America’s past for the public.” Overall, the event was a valuable opportunity for Applied History students as they prepare to enter the field.
To learn more about History and Philosophy studies at Shippensburg, visit here: https://www.ship.edu/academics/cas/history
