We here at NMAAM are truly saddened to hear about the loss of Sen. Thelma Harper. She was a trailblazer and an avid supporter of NMAAM from its inception more than 20 years ago. She was so invested in the historical and cultural importance of this museum that she was among the first state legislators to encourage Gov. Bill Haslam to support the project. Her commitment to NMAAM and Tennessee was unmatched. On a personal note, Sen. Harper was one of the first to welcome me to Nashville in 2009 – over a fried chicken luncheon, with a big blue hat and an even bigger smile. Always encouraging, in recent years she would greet me with a simple “We’re going to get this done!” Sen. Harper, please know that in your honor we will continue to carry on this sentiment through our work here at NMAAM.
Signed,
H. Beecher Hicks, III
*Image source: Tennessee General Assembly