VERDALEE TOMBELAINE

News of Verdalee’s death in Norfolk, Virginia on December 26, 2005 brought forth fond recollections of this very special lady—friend and mentor to many of us working with volunteers.

Verdalee served the New York Horticultural Society in the library for many years and as volunteer coordinator roping in friends and colleagues for major events, especially the New York flower show on the pier.

She regularly volunteered one day a week at the Metropolitan Museum of Art particularly enjoying her placement in the patrons’ lounge where her Southern graciousness and people skills were so welcoming to museum supporters.

A founder and leader of Volunteer Program Administrators in New York City Cultural Institutions Verdalee planned sessions on pertinent subjects providing invaluable training and networking opportunities for established administrators and for those new to the field whom she welcomed and encouraged.

As a board member of the American Association for Museum Volunteers she brought her wisdom and expertise to this national organization.  A supporter of the production of the Handbook on Volunteer Program Administration, she was herself an invaluable resource.

Always immaculately turned out, always thoughtful of others, always ready to enjoy with her friends the cultural offerings of New York City , Verdalee will be remembered for her professional understanding of volunteers and volunteer administration and her encouragement of those in the field fortunate to have known and loved her.

Patricia Sands
Former Director of Volunteer Programs,
South Street Seaport Museum
Former board member, AAMV

                                                                                                                                                  updated  January 17, 2006