Welcome to the #DragonFamily Amanda Butler

Meet Amanda Butler, MSUM’s new assistant professor of anthropology. She specializes in North American archeology.

Q: What drew you to MSUM?
A: I got my degree from MSUM before I went off to grad school and since my family is from the region, I thought coming back would be a wonderful opportunity.

Q: What did you major in at MSUM and when did you graduate?
A:  I majored in anthropology with an emphasis in archeology. My second major was geosciences with an emphasis in geoarchaeology. I was actually one of the very first geoarchaeology majors. I graduated from MSUM in 2005.

Q: What is your favorite part about MSUM so far?
A: I absolutely love the students. I’m amazed by the work ethic they have. I appreciate their commitment; they also always have great and creative ideas to share.

Q: What is the most interesting thing you are working on right now?
A: I’m working on a new project for our upcoming archeology field school this summer. We are going to be working at a ghost town about 30 miles west of here called Winnipeg Junction. The railroad there picked up and left at some point around 1909 causing the town to dry up and all the people moved away.

Q: What is something you are learning right now and why is it important?
A: I’m currently learning a lot of things. I am taking advisor training so I can learn how to use all the tools there are available to help me better prepare and advise my students. I am also being introduced to a student-centered cohort. With that I’m learning how to become a better teacher and about a variety of new teaching methods. Those are two things I’m very excited to be a part of.

Welcome to the #DragonFamily, Amanda.