Smithsonian Critical Thinking: Examining Our Narratives

Candra Flanagan is the staff lead for the Teaching and Learning unit of the Education Department at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. In this current role she oversees the development of programming and resources to assist educators in incorporating African American history in their classroom; researches and creates educational publications for use by the general public and educators; and strategizes the role of NMAAHC in the professional development of educators. Candra is dedicated to establishing research-based, audience-appropriate K-12 initiatives for educators and students. With a degree in History from the University of Maryland College Park, a degree in Social Foundations of Education and advanced coursework Educational Policy from the University of Virginia, she is passionate about the intersection between formal and informal learning as well as cultivating and encouraging life-long learning in educators.

Abby Pfisterer serves as Education Specialist at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, where she leads initiatives to integrate history education with civic engagement for K-12 students nationwide. Her diverse academic background includes degrees in History, Political Science, and Education from Colorado State University, complemented by an MBA from the University of Massachusetts. With over a decade of experience spanning both formal classroom teaching and museum education, she has developed expertise in progressive education methodologies and audience-driven programming. Her teaching experience includes secondary social studies instruction in Colorado schools, while her current work focuses on creating innovative educational resources that make history accessible and engaging for students. Through her role at the National Museum of American History, she develops programs and materials that foster civic learning and historical understanding, bridging the gap between traditional classroom instruction and museum-based education

Dr. Orlando Serrano serves as Manager of Youth and Teacher Programs at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, where he leads innovative educational initiatives and professional development programs. His extensive academic background includes a Ph.D. in American Studies and Ethnicity from the University of Southern California, with research focusing on race, space, power, and the built environment in the Americas, supported by prestigious Ford Foundation and National Science Foundation grants. In his role at NMAH, he develops comprehensive educational programming, including informal learning experiences for students, professional development workshops for educators, and curriculum content that aligns with national standards. His expertise spans teacher professional development, assessment, instruction, and educational technologies, which he applies to create engaging museum-based learning experiences. As co-chair of the Decolonization Working Group at the Center for Restorative History, he contributes to transformative initiatives in museum education while supporting Development, Programming, and Research & Action teams

Ashleigh D. Coren serves as the Women's History Content and Interpretation Curator at the National Portrait Gallery and Acting Head of Education for the Smithsonian American Women's History Initiative, where she develops research projects and programs focused on women in portraiture. After earning her BA in Art and Visual Culture from Bates College and MS in Archives Management from Simmons University, she has built a career bridging library science, museum education, and women's history. Her work encompasses conducting original research, developing public programs, and creating educational resources that highlight underrepresented voices in the gallery's collection. Beyond her curatorial role, she serves as an adjunct lecturer at the University of Maryland's College of Information Studies and facilitates the ACRL Information Literacy Immersion Program. Her contributions include adding NPG images to Wikimedia Commons, developing virtual exhibits for Google Arts & Culture, creating digital teaching collections through the Smithsonian Learning Lab, and publishing in notable journals such as The Journal of American Folklore and the International Review of African American Art. Her innovative approach to museum education combines primary source literacy with a commitment to divesting from harmful organizational practices while promoting diverse narratives in American history.

Briana Zavadil White serves as Head of Education and Public Programs at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, where she has established herself as a pioneer in museum education and portrait interpretation. After earning her BA in Psychology with a minor in Art History from the University of Virginia and MAT in Museum Education from George Washington University, she has developed innovative approaches to engaging visitors with portraiture. Her educational philosophy centers on inquiry and object-based learning, using portraiture as a springboard for deeper discussions about biography, history, and art