On Wednesday evening, June 19th, Dr. Cecilia Rokusek, the head of the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids, spoke from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the German American Museum in St. Lucas, Iowa.  Dr. Rokusek’s topic is “Our Collective Heritage: Strength through Understanding”. This speaking event was jointly sponsored by the Czech Heritage Partnership of Protivin and the German American Museum, Library and Family History Center of St. Lucas.

“Cecilia is the lead off speaker of our monthly speaker series.  We are very excited to have her address the importance of cultural heritage in our lives,” said Clair Blong, head of the St. Lucas Historical Society.

Dr. Rokusek also opened a traveling exhibit on “Czechs in America” in the German American Museum dining room.  The presentation is followed by informal discussions with the speaker and everyone can taste delicious Czech kolaches and enjoy refreshments.  “Come and learn about the importance of Czech, Slovak and other ethnic groups in America’s history and culture”, said Ken Zajicek, the head of the Czech Heritage Partnership.    

Dr. Cecilia Rokusek, is the President and CEO of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids Iowa. This is the premier National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in the U.S. and is an active affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute. 

Dr. Rokusek has held top academic and administrative positions at numerous colleges and universities for more than four decades. In addition to serving as Florida’s Slovak Honorary Consul for the past 16 years, she has established many academic affiliations with institutions in the Czech and Slovak Republics, in several other European countries, and in South Korea.  

Dr. Rokusek is fluent in the Czech and Slovak languages, she holds a doctorate in educational leadership degree from the University of South Dakota and a Master’s of Science in nutrition research from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.

“As a fourth-generation Czechoslovak, I am especially proud of my ancestral heritage”, says Cecilia.  I am passionate about preserving and celebrating our rich cultural history and in laying a foundation for the future that will strengthen our footprints for all generations and all peoples. Seeing the energy and spirit of those involved in Czech and Sovak affairs is truly inspiring for the present and the future.”