Did You Hear About MOTAL?​ MOTAL Behind The Scenes

MOTAL relies on independent contractors, interns and volunteers for its primary means of support. Strong partnerships are essential for MOTAL’s success. MOTAL offers opportunities for both teens and adults. Many of our interns have gained experience and knowledge to help them go on to successful careers. First we would like you to meet our current MOTAL independent contractors, and paid interns.

Norma Ames, Operations and Exhibition Manager

Norma started with MOTAL seven years ago doing various projects. Over the years she has managed our exhibitions, office, social media, bookkeeping, website, digital articles, and supervised our interns. “I loved learning about our traveling exhibitions; A Class Action: The Grassroots Struggle for School Desegregation in California, and Two Roads, One Journey: Education in China and the United States. Being a member of the Brain Team by collaborating on our upcoming exhibition Brain Odyssey: From Conception to Kindergarten has been very enlightening." Norma has forty-two years of experience owning and operating five different businesses. She is a leader, and supporter in our local community, and has received many awards. She brings a smile, laughs, and sometimes singing to her work day. Her motto is: “Whatever I do I take pride in giving it my all.”  
To read more about Cecilia's story go to her Behind the Scenes article.

Cecilia Castillo, Research Intern

Cecilia has been with MOTAL for a year, and a half. She has helped with exhibition installations, presentations, and digital work of all kinds. "I have learned an immeasurable amount about myself, museum work, community engagement, and exhibit installation working for MOTAL. My experience as a docent for A Class Action allowed me to see, firsthand, the impact that exhibits and history have on the community, especially children." She recently graduated with her undergraduate bachelor's degree in History with a minor in Spanish. Cecilia considers this achievement only a minor step in her education and  hopes to continue learning, attend graduate school, and work in public history.
To read more about Cecilia's story go to her Behind the Scenes article.

Tiffany Dacuycuy, Graphic Design and Website Maintenance

Tiffany Dacuycuy has been with MOTAL for almost a year.  She assists with MOTAL’s Graphic Design and Website Maintenance.  She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Cal State Fullerton. Prior to COVID-19 Tiffany also had the opportunity to work several years as one of the coordinators of the Fullerton College Jazz Festival. She also has spent her life with the love of theatre. She spent 6 years as an assistant director for the musicals at Rolling Hills Elementary School, and took over as Director for the last 6 years. She has worked or volunteered within the community for most of her life.  Tiffany is so happy to be a part of the MOTAL team. "Everyone has been a delight to collaborate with." She loves that there is always something new to discover and learn especially reading through the various articles and artifacts of the month.
Coming soon a Behind the Scenes article to learn more about Tiffany!

Donna Edman Photography

Donna spends extra time connecting with everyone because she wants to tell your story and vision.  She did just that when we asked her to photograph our artifact collection.  She carefully placed each artifact so you could see the essence of what it was.  When photographing MOTAL's Tenth Anniversary Gala at the Bower's Museum Donna captured all the elements of the event.  The photo's are fun and memorable. Donna asks "What is it that brings you joy? An aura of contentment can be elicited by a sweet thought of a child. A bold gaze can be conjured by sharing a vision for the future. Some people like to talk. Some people need to run, dance, or sit thoughtfully in silence. I capture the best images by allowing you to be who you truly are."
For more information about Donna Edman Photography go to https://www.donnaedmanphotography.com/

After setting up "A Class Action Exhibition" in Palm Springs - having some fun!

MOTAL's Tenth Anniversary Gala - Greta Nagel,
Norma Ames, Donna Edman, volunteers, and attendees standing in front of the MOTAL's Selfie Booth.