This is Dora Rodriguez: Longest Serving Volunteer of the Meadowlands Museum
- This Is Rutherford
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
By Jennifer Ersalesi
Rutherfordian Dora Rodriguez was recognized as the Meadowlands Museum's longest-serving volunteer at the Museum's Chocolate Tasting event in February. The President of the Museum's Board, Robin Reenstra, presented Dora with a certificate, a gift, and a Proclamation from Mayor Frank Nunziato. Robin spoke about Dora's dedication to volunteering and her role in maintaining, cataloging, and researching items in the various collections at the Meadowlands Museum.
TIR: How long have you lived in Rutherford?
Dora Rodriguez: Over 50 years.
TIR: What do you enjoy most about living in Rutherford?
DR: The close-knit community lifestyle offered by a small town.
TIR: Why did you decide to begin volunteering with the Meadowlands Museum?
DR: The opportunity to contribute my time to the type of organization I enjoy and think is important to a community
TIR: Which positions have you held at the Museum?
DR: Registrar and member of the review committee, collections manager, exhibit curator, and member of the extinct Board of Governors.
TIR: Can you tell us about a favorite exhibit (or more than one)?
DR: A current favorite exhibit is the one in the Toy Room, displaying the role and evolution of toys (mid-19th to mid-20th centuries); a second current favorite is “From Edison’s Phonograph to Streaming,” the history of music-playing and recording devices and New Jersey’s role in its beginnings – and of course, the Williams Carlos Williams Memorial Room, a display of the life and work of the poet through books, photographs, artifacts and personal belongings.
TIR: Which part of volunteering at the Meadowlands Museum has been rewarding?
DR: The planning and execution of new exhibits.
TIR: Why do you think the Meadowlands Museum is such a valuable asset to our Borough?
DR: The Meadowlands Museum preserves the history and cultural heritage of Rutherford and surrounding communities and provides opportunities for research, learning, and enjoyment through its archives and exhibits.
TIR: What would you like to tell readers about why they should visit the Museum?
DR: Small museums, such as the Meadowlands Museum, offer visitors intimate, personal connections to the past.
TIR: Tell us about your reaction to receiving an award for 44 years of Volunteer Service at the Meadowlands Museum Chocolate Tasting event in February.
DR: Receiving the award was an unexpected and very emotional surprise for which I am very grateful.
To learn more about the Meadowlands Museum, click here.
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