Susan Hughes
Lead Historian & Archivist
Susan has worked in the public history sector for more than 30 years. At the Pomeroy Foundation, she oversees a wide range of historical marker programs and the research historians who support the marker applicants and grantees. Recognizing her many contributions to public history through her role at the Foundation, Susan is a recipient of the prestigious Hugh Hastings Award presented by the Association of Public Historians of New York State (APHNYS). Susan previously worked in the University Archives at Syracuse University and as a Regional Archivist for the Documentary Heritage Program. Susan earned a B.A. from the University of Delaware and an M.A. in history with a public history concentration from Bowling Green State University where she worked at the Center for Archival Collections.

John Hart, Jr.
Grants Reviewer, Pomeroy Foundation
Archivist/Collections Manager, American Pomeroys
John joined the American Pomeroys in 2024, bringing a broad background in American history and expertise in the museum field with a specialty in collections care and management. He regularly provides input and knowledge on a range of projects for the Pomeroy Foundation’s historical marker grant programs. As archivist/collections manager for the American Pomeroys, he applies best practice to the unique and growing collection, interweaving the Pomeroy family story into American history, while making the collection as accessible as possible. John previously served as director of the Sullivan Museum and History Center at Norwich University (SMHCNU), Northfield, VT. Before SMHCNU, John was the collections manager at Fenimore Farm and Country Village (formerly The Farmers’ Museum) and Fenimore Art Museum. John holds a B.A. in history from St. Michael’s College and M.A. in history museum studies from The Cooperstown Graduate Program. He grew up going to lots of antique shops, developing his interest in objects. John’s favorite is his 1929 Ford Model A, given to him by his grandfather.

Emma MacDowell
Research Historian and Engagement Associate
In her role, Emma evaluates grant applications, guides applicants in locating primary source documentation, revises marker inscriptions, and authors descriptions for the Pomeroy Foundation’s marker map. She conducts research to ensure the markers are grounded in primary source evidence. Emma collaborates and supports applicants through the entire process of securing a historical marker. In addition, she works to expand the reach of the Pomeroy Foundation’s marker programs by forging connections with potential partners and applicants. As the outreach lead for the Legends & Lore and National Register Signage Grant Programs, Emma oversees and performs outreach for both initiatives. Emma recently graduated with an M.S. in library and information science from Syracuse University. She also holds a B.A. in history from Cazenovia College. When she’s not performing historical deep dives, Emma enjoys birding, collecting vinyl records, and spending time with family and friends.

Anastasia Sopchak
Research Historian and Engagement Associate
Anastasia (Ana) works with current and prospective applicants across marker programs, guiding them through the research and application process. She reviews and evaluates grant applications with a focus on primary source documentation, historical accuracy, and adherence to program guidelines. As outreach lead for the Hungry for History® grant program and the Foundation’s National Education Program, Anastasia empowers students to engage in historical research. Prior to joining the Foundation, Anastasia earned an M.S. in Library and Information Science from Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies in 2024 and holds a B.A. in English from Shawnee State University. Her background includes work in Special Collections and Archives at Syracuse University’s Conservation Lab and roles in Technical Services and the Center for Public History at Shawnee State University. Anastasia is passionate about historic preservation, conservation, and interpretation, which makes her role working with marker applicants especially rewarding. In her free time, she enjoys ceramic arts, reading (a lot), and spending time with her pets.

Jodi Oaks
Historical Grants Consultant
Jodi is responsible for working directly with marker applicants throughout the entire process. Her role includes reviewing and evaluating marker grant applications, as well as conducting primary source research. Jodi’s work with the Pomeroy Foundation began as a historical research consultant for the National Votes for Women Trail program in 2019. Prior to her work with the Foundation, Jodi served as a reference and research librarian in higher education. Jodi holds an associate degree in liberal arts and sciences from Mohawk Valley Community College, a B.S. in history from SUNY Oneonta and an M.S. in information and library science from the University at Buffalo. Jodi is an avid reader and lifelong learner who loves to discover new information and stories. She enjoys spending time with her family and cats.