Mark Penoff

Greenwood,Indiana

Summary

Driven by a passion for history and a keen analytical mindset, research, preservation, and sharing history with those around me is my true calling. During my time at the Historical Bureau, contributing to the historical marker program for the public has instilled in me the importance of history. Training in historic preservation, historic administration, and historical research practices has set a solid base for my professional growth. My adaptability, dependability, and problem-solving skills all coalesce into a hardworking historian who finds joy in research and preservation.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Research Associate (Internship)

Indiana Historical Bureau

09.2024 - 05.2025

Contributed to the development of public-facing historical markers, including those for Major George Slaughter, the
Sullivan County Carnegie Library, and the National Road.
Conducted comprehensive historical research using diverse methodologies, including digital archives, academic databases, and microfilm resources.
Collaborated with team members to review and refine historical narratives, ensuring accuracy and clarity through structured peer feedback.
Engaged in the ongoing process of public history by supporting the professional-to-public transition of historical content through final marker placement.

Collections Associate (Internship)

Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

05.2024 - 08.2024

Cataloged and updated artifact records to ensure public and researcher access to accurate, current collection
information.
Processed and documented newly donated items, expanding the site's artifact database and supporting long-term preservation efforts.
Collaborated with the curator to coordinate artifact loans with external institutions, including the successful transfer of First Lady Caroline Harrison’s dress to a partnering organization in Florida.
Engaged with visitors by answering questions and providing insight into artifact handling and collection processes, enhancing public understanding of the site’s historical work.

Department Supervisor

Kroger

06.2020 - Current

Developed and honed 5+ years of leadership experience, consistently driving team performance and operational
efficiency.
Successfully adapted to diverse and fast-paced work environments, ensuring continuity and problem resolution under pressure.
Improved team outcomes by proactively initiating clear and timely communication during high-stress or challenging situations.
Effectively led and managed daily workflows for teams of 4–10 employees, enhancing productivity and maintaining
service standards.

Education

Master of Arts - Public History

Indiana University

Indianapolis, IN

05-2025

Bachelor of Arts - History

Indiana University

Indianapolis, IN

05-2018

Skills

Historical Research
Public History Interpretation & Historical Administration
Historic Preservation Planning & Compliance
Strategic Planning
Digital History & Community-Focused Online Exhibits

Collections Management & Artifact Documentation
Public History Interpretation & Historical Administration
Historical Marker Development
Cultural Resource Documentation & Survey Work

Publications

Worked on and drafted texts for forthcoming Indiana Historical Bureau historical markers of Dr. John Shaw Billings, Sullivan Carnegie Library, Major George Slaughter, and The National Road.
Published a digital history tour titled "Work and Industry Before 1890 In Indiana: Exploring the Evolution of Labor." https://discoverindianahistory.org/tours/show/79

Affiliations

National History Honor Society
Indiana Association of Historians
National Council on Public History

Portfolio

National Register of Historic Places Sample

Material Culture Writing Sample

Amateur Sports Initiative

Koorsen Fire Museum Strategic Plan