No organization succeeds without dedicated people behind the scenes. At Atlanta History Center, the Private Events team is one of many that contribute to the museum’s success. Together they work tirelessly to provide a platform that hosts hundreds of stunning events each year. While each person is an integral part of the team’s overall success, there is one person who everyone unanimously considers their mentor: Robin DeFoe.
Robin DeFoe grew up in a Florida town so small there was only one policeman. She came to Atlanta looking for change—a big one. Although her childhood dream was to be a dolphin trainer, she found her place at Atlanta History Center as a volunteer. A quick 34 years later, DeFoe is now Director of Sales and enamored with the unpredictability that comes with her position each day. While she looks forward to retiring someday and the traveling that will result from it, Robin doesn’t quite know when she’ll be ready to leave the place for which she holds such great fondness. She’s seen hundreds of events, thousands of guests, and countless memorable moments, including the launch of events at the Atlanta History Museum in 1993. However, her favorite memory was when the Emperor and Empress of Japan visited in 1994.
Throughout her career, DeFoe has met an impressive roster of notable people—from former First Lady Laura Bush to the King and Queen of Sweden.
Among the most exciting people she’s met through Atlanta History Center is her dear friend Carmen Deedy. The two met 32 years ago and a lifelong friendship was formed from a passion project of Deedy’s. Deedy wanted to create a storytelling festival, which Robin facilitated and helped turn into a reality.
DeFoe is praised as an expert in her field by many and is much more than a dedicated resource to Atlanta History Center and the Private Events team.
She is a consultant, an honest presence, a pillar in times of chaos, and a friend to those she works with.
Described by her co-workers as calm and warm, it’s no surprise that DeFoe’s motto is to simply “keep cool.” The world today, according to DeFoe, has become crazy and quick to react. In her free time, she enjoys knitting and reading, but believes there are too many good books in the world to have a favorite. DeFoe also loves taking life slow and embracing each moment.
Next time you are walking around the museum, be sure to visit Robin DeFoe’s favorite place on campus —the Smith Farm, which she loves for its rustic beauty. “Just relax. There are moments in every day that we may forget, that are inevitably forgotten, and to spend the days worrying, arguing, or bickering chip away at the time we have to enjoy and remember the world and community around us.”
Meet Robin DeFoe and the rest of the Private Events team by scheduling a site tour or booking your next event at Atlanta History Center.