Up Next - Nicole!
Name: Nicole Thurston, aka Wonder Woman
Title: Executive Director
How long have you worked at the Cannonball House?
Since November 2014
What exactly do you do for the house?
I handle the day-to-day operations of the museum. I think the official definition is: Provides leadership in the management of the organization. Directs and participates in fundraising, marketing, development of strategic vision, collection development, general management, financial management and fostering volunteer/board/city relations of the Cannonball House.
Did you get all of that?
What do you like the most about your job?
I absolutely love the beauty of the house. Sometimes I have to pinch myself. The history, the collections, how wonderful our Board of Directors are - all of it is amazing! I absolutely love my job! If I need a break, I simply go sit on one of the rocking chairs out front over looking Mulberry Street, or perhaps stroll through our Victorian Garden. I know, I know.. I'm lucky in so many ways.
I got my Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications (Broadcast Journalism) from Georgia College & State University. I worked in television news for a few years at 13WMAZ. Even won myself an Associated Press Award while there, for Best Public Affairs Reporting (for a documentary we did!) Later, like all good journalists, I transitioned into media relations/public relations and worked for the Girl Scouts as their Communications/Program Specialist. I eventually moved to Birmingham, there I worked as the Marketing and Communications Director for the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association for eastern Tennessee, Alabama, and the panhandle of Florida. I eventually made my way back to Macon and was the Director of Sales & Marketing for the Tubman African American Museum.
Not only do I work at the Cannonball House now, but I also freelance write for the 11th Hour. (I typically cover new and upcoming restaurants/businesses and very cool people.) I also write for Macon Magazine. So yes, the journalist never left me. It's in my blood. At the end of the day - everything and everyone has a story. Just like this house.
What do you do for fun?
I am a voracious reader! I always carry at least two books with me at all times - one fiction and one non fiction. I also blog and take waaay too many photographs (yes, I am that person. You and the food you eat are not safe from my snapping away!) I also enjoy traveling. I'm a bit of a road warrior. I spend 4 nights in middle Georgia, the rest.. well who knows! I've recently gotten into cooking and gardening.
I also serve my community by sitting on several different boards: Macon Volunteer Clinic, American Cancer Society, Star Choices, Inc, Centenery Community Ministries, and the Georgia Arts Network. I'm also a member of the Downtown Macon Rotary.
What do you love most about Macon?
Where do I begin? I love, love, love the architecture. Our town is really quite beautiful. Plus, I have never been in a town that has more going on during the week! When people tell me there is nothing, I am shocked. It's there - you've got to look for it. (I recommend ovations365.org, Macon Magazine or the 11th Hour.) The downtown scene is really booming! I can't say I have a favorite, because they are all really good! I also love the incredible amount of talent just roaming the streets! My advice - Get out there and have some fun! From live theater, live music, gourmet food, art - you name it, we've got it!
Where were you born?
Macon, Georgia!
Any final thoughts?
Give the Cannonball House a try! If you have a kid, bring them to Millie's Story Time. Looking for a girl's afternoon out? Then come to the tea parties. Love history? Then take our 45 minute private tours. Looking for the perfect place to host a bridal shower or wedding? Then look no further! If you like to have a good time? Beards, Bourbon & Bacon is my personal baby! I promise, you won't regret it. Also, we are always looking for volunteers!
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