Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Awards
Generic
Cathleen Lancaster

Cathleen Lancaster

Nags Head,NC

Summary

Versatile and mission-driven professional with a unique blend of experience in guest services, educational programming, and conservation/preservation-centered operations. With a strong foundation in public education, exhibit curation, and regulatory compliance, I bring a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, resolve visitor concerns with empathy and clarity, and deliver exceptional service that aligns with institutional goals. My background spans classroom instruction, museum and gallery coordination, and real estate contract management—each requiring clear communication, detail-oriented documentation, and cross-departmental collaboration. I have continually demonstrated a strong record of effectively resolving various concerns, supervising and training, and supporting institutional goals through detailed communication, point-of-sale (POS) proficiency, and budget-aligned decision-making. Actively pursuing SCUBA and DAN First Aid certification to support hands-on work in aquarium environments. I am eager to contribute to the North Carolina Aquarium’s mission by creating a welcoming, safe, and educational experience for all visitors and members.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Social Studies Teacher (Grades 9–12)

Dare County Schools
01.2021 - Current
  • Developed and led hands-on enrichment-based environmental education programs for high school students.
  • Maintained compliance with IEP/504 accommodations while using trauma-informed, observation-based behavioral interventions.
  • Oversaw AVID student mentoring and served as site leader coordinating outreach, positive reinforcement, and progress tracking.
  • Regularly integrate conservation, preservation, connective and reflective content to support cross-disciplinary learning.

Realtor

The Real Estate Group
01.2014 - 01.2021
  • Managed complex regulatory documentation, client education, and stakeholder coordination with a high degree of discretion.
  • Led transactions with legal precision—skills that mirror permitting, procurement, and vendor coordination duties in public aquariums.

Preservation Associate

Commonwealth Preservation Group
01.2013 - 01.2014
  • Conducted site visits and field research to document conditions and recommend conservation, and preservation strategies.
  • Created compliance reports and documentation aligned with preservation standards—skills transferable to AZA/USDA regulatory environments.

Library Assistant

Elise N. Hofheimer Art Library
01.2013 - 01.2013
  • Assisted patrons with specialized research in natural history, conservation, and environmental science.
  • Directed patrons to appropriate resources and providing basic information.
  • Helped patrons access databases, online resources, and other digital tools.
  • Helped to organize and set up special events, book displays, and other programs.

Gallery Assistant

Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries
01.2012 - 01.2012
  • Maintained accurate records, managed transport logistics, and ensured secure documentation for rotating exhibits.
  • Supported art care and exhibition standards comparable to animal care protocols (handling, security, condition reporting).

Curatorial Intern

Chrysler Museum of Fine Art
06.2011 - 08.2011
  • Designed and maintained museum exhibits with strict adherence to environmental and preservation controls.
  • Created public-facing labels and interpretive materials focused on cultural and natural themes.
  • Presented research at regional symposiums, demonstrating subject matter expertise and public engagement.

Education

Teaching Licensure - History Major, Education Minor

Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, NC

Bachelor of Arts - Art History, Minor: History

Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA

Associate of Arts - Arts

Tidewater Community College
Virginia Beach, VA

Skills

  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Google Workspace
  • Adobe Acrobat
  • CRM & Record Management Systems
  • Environmental Logs

Certification

  • DAN First Aid / CPR / AED – In progress
  • SCUBA Certification – In progress (meeting job requirements)

Timeline

Social Studies Teacher (Grades 9–12)

Dare County Schools
01.2021 - Current

Realtor

The Real Estate Group
01.2014 - 01.2021

Preservation Associate

Commonwealth Preservation Group
01.2013 - 01.2014

Library Assistant

Elise N. Hofheimer Art Library
01.2013 - 01.2013

Gallery Assistant

Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries
01.2012 - 01.2012

Curatorial Intern

Chrysler Museum of Fine Art
06.2011 - 08.2011

Bachelor of Arts - Art History, Minor: History

Old Dominion University

Associate of Arts - Arts

Tidewater Community College

Teaching Licensure - History Major, Education Minor

Elizabeth City State University

Awards

Circle of Excellence – 2016 & 2017 (Real Estate)

Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society

Undergraduate Research Grant Recipient – Spring 2013

Presenter – ODU Undergraduate Research Symposium (2012 & 2013)