Simmons Graduate Internship Program The Henry Ford's Simmons Internship Program is designed for current graduate students pursuing careers in museums, historical agencies, conservation labs, or related fields. These internships provide participants with a great opportunity to gain in-depth work experience in a major American history museum. Jackson Family Research Project Internship This project aims to conduct research, analyze, compile, and document family history associated with Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Jackson of Selma, Alabama and their extended family. The Jackson family and their home played a key role in the Civil Rights movement and was relocated to Greenfield Village (The Henry Ford) from Alabama in 2024.
The intern's work will include writing brief biographies of Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Jackson and summary biographies of other key individuals in their extended family, as well as developing a "family tree" documenting the family. As time allows, completing other small Jackson-related research projects as needed. Reports to the Curator of Domestic Life. Duties and responsibilities:
• Gathering information about the lives of Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Jackson and their extended family.
• Practice a high standard of research using online genealogy databases and primary source material.
• Capturing family personal stories.
• Developing a "family tree" and creating brief biographies on Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Jackson and summary biographies on other key individuals in the family.
• Creating a presentation of completed work. Minimum Requirements:
• Enrollment in a graduate-level program for American History, Information Studies, Museum Studies, or related field.
• Experience with historical research and the ability to interpret materials found in this process.
• Strong proficiency in using online genealogy databases and primary source material.
• Highly detail oriented with ability to resolve issues from conflicting data.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Stipend and Terms of Internship Simmons interns are awarded stipends for a minimum 12-week full time internship. Starting and ending dates for individual internships are negotiable. The Simmons Internship Program is funded by the Vera W. and Walter E. Simmons Endowment Fund.
Applications should include: • A letter of application, stating how your graduate studies, work and/or volunteer experience and personal interests qualify you for the specific project
• A résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Two references
Students may apply for more than one internship project but must submit a unique letter of application for each. The deadline for application is Sunday, March 1.