W&M alumnus a finalist to live in Chicago museum for a month
Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry may be getting a roommate for a month – a Tribe roommate, that is.
Kevin Byrne ’00 is one of six finalists for the Month at the Museum 2 contest, sponsored by the museum. If he wins, Byrne will experience the exhibits at the museum 24/7, have the opportunity to meet guests from all over the world, share his experiences via social media and take home $10,000.
Byrne, 33, was chosen from hundreds of applications, according to a press release by the museum. The winner will be decided by a public, online vote – at monthatthemuseum.org – which began Tuesday, Sept. 27. Voting ends at 5 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 3. The winner will be announced on Oct. 5.
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“I’ve always had a passion for science and the museum program gives me the chance to dive into science 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Byrne. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have an all-access pass of the museum and I would love to explore the museum in-depth.”
A biology major, Byrne worked as an admissions tour guide during his undergraduate years at William & Mary. He was required to submit a video and an entry essay for the contest to demonstrate his true love for science, adventure and lifelong learning.
A self-proclaimed adventurer, Byrne described how he has biked solo across the country, run in five marathons (and is currently training for his sixth) and served a stint as a Blue Man Group “tube talker.” His full profile page, along with a place to cast your vote for Byrne, can be found online.
Senior Associate Dean of Admission Tim Wolfe worked with Byrne in the admissions office in the late 1990s. Wolfe says Byrne is the perfect fit for the month at the museum.
“He possesses an incredible range of interests, and he’s the type of person that finds a way to connect with anyone,” said Wolfe.
A native of Roanoke, Va., Byrne currently works as a digital media analyst in Chicago.
