Meet Jerry Williams, a Greeter on our Visitor Experience (VEX) team. Jerry has worked here for three years and sat down to discuss some of his interests and tell us a little more about his work as a member of our VEX team here at the Skirball Cultural Center.  

Q: Tell us about an exhibition that you’ve enjoyed here at the Skirball.  

A: I enjoyed Star Trek: Exploring New Worlds best. It stirred a whimsical chord in our culture and brought back memories for so many people. I remember one lady came, an older lady, saying that her husband had passed. She told me he was such a big fan of Star Trek and as she was talking to me, tears came to her eyes. The fact that we can do things that are so poignant and meaningful to our community is really refreshing. I love that we can offer that nostalgia and a profound sense of community here, where someone feels comfortable telling me about her great love. 

Q: Describe a Skirball event you had the opportunity to attend. What made it special for you?   

A: Two years ago, I was able to see Booker T. Jones, a musical icon, here at Sunset Concerts. He’s such a big name and if you grew up with rhythm, blues, and Motown music, Booker T. Jones was a big part of the music scene. His work influenced me during my childhood, and he continues to influence me today. In fact, I’ve played in many different bands, and we recently covered one of his songs.  

Q: What's one activity you prioritize outside of the Skirball? How does it interact with the work you do here? 

A: I’m a musician and for the last ten years, I’ve been a part of the Los Cancioneros Master Chorale. I’ve been doing chorale music, however, for twenty-five years. It’s kind of like a family. There is an ethereal feeling you can get when you’re in a group of people making music like you’re in that same plane; that’s the only way I can describe it—ethereal. My father was a Baptist minister, so it’s a very spiritual, personal way I worship.  

Q: Tell us about a coworker who has gone above and beyond to represent the Skirball in their work.  

A: My coworkers April and Elizabeth strive to keep our department running smoothly. We all try to provide great service to our community. 

Q: What are you looking forward to learning more about yourself in the following year? 

A: I worked for over ten years with the office safety team at a former employer. Our training included first aid and CPR/AED to first responder search and rescue. Since working at the Skirball, I’ve joined the SEAT Committee (Safety, Education, Accident Prevention, and Training). I’m looking forward to continuing to learn from this group and grow in my servitude to this community.  

Q: Do you have any additional thoughts you'd like to share publicly about the Skirball? 

A: I always describe the Skirball as an “outstanding community citizen.” On the Visitor Experience team and certainly company wide, we take to heart the guiding principle of “Welcoming the Stranger.” In the next year, I’d like to see our community open its doors to more visitors. I can’t wait to see more lines out the door!  

Our institution is more than just a workplace—it's a community where each team member plays a vital role in bringing the Skirball's mission and values to life, and creating memorable experiences for all who walk through our doors. As a loving tribute to our original benefactors, Jack and Audrey Skirball, and because of the Skirballs' dedication to education and cultural exchange, we proudly call ourselves "Skirballers."

We regularly spotlight one of these Skirballers, showcasing their unique talents, passions, and contributions to our community. Through these introductions, we invite you to get to know the people who make working here truly something special.