Zach Quimby, who graduated from High Point University in 2020, was selected by The White House Historical Association to serve as a 2024 Next-Gen Leader.
HIGH POINT, N.C., Feb. 22, 2024 – High Point University students, faculty and staff recently received the following academic and professional awards.
White House Historical Association Selects Alumnus as Next-Gen Leader
Zach Quimby, who graduated from HPU in 2020, was selected by The White House Historical Association (WHHA) to serve as a 2024 Next-Gen Leader (NGL). The NGL cohort “is a group of influential young professionals representing a variety of fields, bound together by a passion for civics, education and history” who serve as ambassadors for the association’s mission.
“I’m incredibly honored to join the WHHA as a Next-Gen Leader in 2024,” said Quimby. “Not only is it a fantastic opportunity to network and collaborate with influential leaders across the country, it’s also a chance to put the skills I learned at High Point University – from life skills to thorough experiences throughout the history department – to work as I help advance the historical significance of one of our nation’s most important institutions.”
The NGL cohort will be tasked with supporting and amplifying the WHHA’s mission. Through exclusive networking and educational opportunities, the cohort will provide a fresh perspective on the importance of White House history. Quimby hopes to engage with fellow leaders throughout the year and find new, innovative ways to reach younger people to promote the Executive Mansion’s history.
Born and raised near Richmond, Virginia, Quimby developed a passion for leadership and service in his journey to Eagle Scout through the Boy Scouts of America. Quimby majored in political science and U.S. history at HPU and received his master’s in political communication from American University.
After three cycles in electoral politics in North Carolina, he now works as manager of public affairs for the National Apartment Association, where he advocates for sustainable solutions to the nation’s housing affordability crisis. He was selected for the NGL cohort through an application process that evaluated his educational and professional background in addition to his connections and interest in White House history. The application also required a letter of support from a successful industry professional.
“High Point University’s holistic approach to the undergraduate experience – from relevant, tailored classes to engaging professors dedicated to student success – propelled me to join this leadership cohort,” said Quimby.
HPU Students Present Historic Posters on Quakers’ Legacy
HPU history students recently presented public history posters to Mendenhall Homeplace, a museum in Jamestown, North Carolina, to detail their research about the growth and influence of Quakers in 17th century England through their settlement in North Carolina.
Dr. Amanda Allen, assistant professor of history, was proud of the work students in her Reformation of Europe class compiled for the museum, which represents the legacy of Quaker settlers who actively opposed slavery, promoted education and labored to create a life of peaceful simplicity. Students’ research included the Quakers’ theology, political influence and social impact both in Europe and America.
“The posters were very professional and added to the overall historic site by illuminating the unique history of the Quakers, especially in the Triad,” said Allen. “The students’ research focused on important primary documents across multiple centuries and connected with the specific history of the Mendenhall family at their preserved historic homestead. This was a great experiential learning opportunity for my class.”
Ben Thomas, a junior history and religion major, said he knew little about the lives of the Quakers and their influence on the local area before this research project.
“As someone born and raised here, it was very fascinating to learn and engage in such an opportunity that highlighted the history of my state,” said Thomas. “Many people pass by Mendenhall Homeplace daily, but very few truly know about the history of the site and its impact on the early local community. This project opened the opportunity for hands-on research at a local site with artifacts and primary source evidence for us to base our research. This kind of experience is integral to the education of aspiring historians and helps us hone our abilities as we continue to work in the historical field.”
Visiting Mendenhall Homeplace while conducting research for this project created a unique learning opportunity, said Samantha Dunn, a junior history major and museum studies minor.
“Standing inside George Cameron Mendenhall’s old home while learning about his work and the work of fellow Quakers was extremely enlightening since the course explored the Reformation in Europe,” said Dunn. “My learning experience was enhanced greatly through this project, and I hope to be able to do something similar in future courses.”
Kaitlyn Cruz, a senior history major and museum studies minor, said the research and poster project sharpened her understanding of history.
“It is so easy to view history as linear, but when it is put into perspective, all aspects, such as politics and society, come into play and transcend the typical boundaries,” said Cruz. “I now have the experience of working with the community to not only create the project but present it as well. I’m able to provide educational guidance for the audience when presented with questions and inquiries I may not have initially prepared for.”
Professor to Perform in Opera to Benefit Shelter
Dr. Scott MacLeod, associate professor of music, will sing the role of Bartolo in Piedmont Opera’s presentation of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s comedy, “The Marriage of Figaro,” at the High Point Theatre on Friday, March 22, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, March 24, at 2 p.m. This is the first main-stage opera the professional opera company has produced in High Point.
MacLeod performed on stage with iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli during a Valentine’s Day concert in Raleigh. He sang with a chorus that included HPU faculty, students and alumni.
The Piedmont Opera has partnered with Open Door Ministries for the performances of “The Marriage of Figaro.” Open Door Ministries is a nonprofit dedicated to helping people regain their lives through emergency assistance and supportive services, which include operating a homeless shelter, serving daily meals, distributing food and acquiring jobs.
This comic opera is being marketed as a modern-day wedding, and attendees are being asked to bring gifts on the “wedding couple’s registry.” The gifts are actually items needed by Open Door Ministries. For the gift list, click here. Tickets range from $20-$98. The production is in Italian, with English subtitles projected above the stage. A free pre-opera discussion is available 45 minutes before each curtain.
In addition, Piedmont Opera’s Student Night will introduce students to opera on Wednesday, March 20, at 7:30 p.m. at the High Point Theatre. Tickets are $5 for students and $15 for chaperones. For tickets, visit PiedmontOpera.org or call (336) 725-7101.