Unlike most of our board members, Board Secretary Heather Rogers wasn’t familiar with Clermont. It wasn’t until her friend and then-colleague approached her about joining the board that she began to learn about Clermont and the Livingstons.

On a professional note:

Can you share a bit about your background and how you became involved with this board?

Friends of Clermont Executive Director Randy Tryon and I worked together for nearly 19 years in our previous positions. At the time, Randy was vice president of the board and (as always!) extremely enthusiastic about Clermont. Knowing my passion for history, he invited me to join the Friends of Clermont board.

What inspired you to serve on this board, and what has kept you engaged?

I joined during the pandemic. Particularly since the world was shut down, it was a wonderful opportunity to meet new people while staying safe at home. I love the fascinating, rich history of Clermont.

What skills or experiences do you bring to the board that you feel are valuable?

Graphic design and communications. I’ve been able to help elevate Friends of Clermont through website improvements, redesigned print materials and email newsletter, the introduction of the blog, rebranded events, overall communications, and more. 

What have been some of the most rewarding experiences you've had while serving on the board?

One of my favorites was attending the inaugural Tea at Clermont Gardens – it was the first time I met many of the other board members in person. The event was lovely and memorable. I enjoyed chatting with Friends of Clermont members and the community (and eating the salted caramel brownies… mmmm). 

I also appreciate the opportunity to hear the lesser-known stories about the site and the surrounding area. Attending the reception of the Redefining the Family exhibit and A Conversation about Slavery in the Hudson Valley: Two Linked Descendants Share Their Story was eye-opening and inspiring.  

What challenges have you faced as a board member, and how have you overcome them?

Not living close to Clermont and having two school-age children, I’m not always available to attend events. Luckily, I’m able to contribute behind the scenes. 

What unique perspective do you think you bring to the board?

I spent most of my career as an in-house creative, with the last few years as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator. My experience on various communications and marketing teams has been helpful as we promote Friends of Clermont events and programs.

What are some key goals you hope to achieve during your time on the board?

I’d love to continue improving the website and other communications. 

Where do you see the board or organization in the next few years, and what role do you think the board will play in getting there?

It’s an exciting time for the Friends of Clermont. We are fully staffed, the board all works well together, and we have great momentum.

On a personal note:

How has being a part of the board impacted you personally or professionally?

It’s been interesting to see how a historic site is supported, appreciated, enjoyed, and maintained. I’ve met some fantastic people and made wonderful connections. I’m proud to play a small role in the preservation of the site.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining a board for the first time?

It can be intimidating – especially the rules of order (making motions and seconding and whatnot). I remember feeling very confused about, well, everything in my first few meetings. But it’s a great group of people – everyone is very kind and helpful. It didn’t take long before I felt like I’d been there all along. 

What are your top three favorite musicians?

My favorites change often. I watched Piece by Piece recently and was blown away by Pharrell Williams. I’ve always loved his music, but I’m completely blown away by his story, his creativity, and his genius. (And he has synesthesia and can see music?! Incredible.) I’ll add Billie Eilish and Sia. If you ask me tomorrow, my answers will be different.

What is your favorite vacation destination/place, and why?

I don’t have a favorite destination, but I love squeezing historic sites in whenever possible. San Francisco and Washington D.C. are on my list to visit soon. 

What is one of the most interesting facts about you?

I’ve read at least one book about every U.S. president. It started out as a half-hearted spite project and my heart wasn’t in it, but everything changed when I started doodling my way through the biographies. It spiraled out of control and now I can’t stop. Despite all of my reading, I wasn’t familiar with Robert Livingston (or any of the Livingstons) until joining the board. Now Livingstons appear all the time in my reading. Let’s keep this between us, but I confess that I’m still confused by the family tree. How can I not be? There are so many Roberts Livingston!