The Conservancy is excited to introduce our global community to one of our newest team members, David Atchison!

As our Administrative & Program Associate, David plays an important role in supporting the Conservancy’s mission by engaging with supporters, managing the Conservancy’s Philadelphia office and assisting with fundraising efforts. David comes to the Conservancy having recently graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he was a digital media assistant and also worked as a gallery assistant for a community arts center.

We are so excited to have David on our team! 

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE SS UNITED STATES CONSERVANCY?

I moved to Philly in February and was frequenting the Ikea that sits across from the ship. I didn’t know much about ocean liners at the time but seeing the retired ship in person was quite moving, and it really spiked my curiosity. I went home to research the ship when I came across the Conservancy and discovered their efforts to save the SS United States. I also discovered its beautiful interior, and I found the art and sculpture that lined the vessel an incredibly interesting study of mid-century American art. I felt that it was a valiant effort that I wanted to be a part of. Luckily enough, the Conservancy was hiring at the time, so I reached out.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AS THE CONSERVANCY'S ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATE?

As the Conservancy’s administrative associate, I manage our donor database and act as the main point-of-contact for all inquiries from our supporters. I also handle the organization of ship tours, making sure that those who come aboard the ship are prepared beforehand. Whether I am helping a supporter set up monthly donations, designing branded merchandise for the Conservancy, or arranging curatorial donations, I am always working to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. 

IN YOUR WORK WITH THE CONSERVANCY THUS FAR, WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?

I think I am most proud of who I get to be in this role. As the main point-of-contact between the Conservancy and its supporters, I get to hear some pretty amazing stories from people who reach out to the Conservancy and share their passion for the SS United States and their memories of her. Oftentimes I will receive messages from people who sailed on the SS United States at one point and want to see their names on the passenger list, so I am always happy to help them out. Generally, I am proud to provide a global audience with pieces of their past, no matter how small.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING TO ACCOMPLISH WITH THE CONSERVANCY IN THE FUTURE?

I would like to develop and introduce a sonic element into the historical landscape of the SS United States. I think it would be very interesting to consider the ambient sounds and external music that people experienced while on the ship, whether implemented as songs or as a background element of our podcast. I hope to advance this project in the near future!