Dr. Matthew Naylor, CEO of the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Named Chief Influencer

The Communications Board names Dr. Matthew Naylor, President and CEO of the National WWI Museum and Memorial, a Chief Influencer.

What does it mean to lead an institution with both reverence and relevance? In this episode of Chief Influencer, Dr. Matthew Naylor shares how he has reimagined the National WWI Museum and Memorial as more than a monument to the past. It is now a global destination and a civic front porch for the Kansas City community.

Through immersive storytelling, innovative technology, and intentional partnerships, Dr. Naylor invites people to engage with history in ways that feel personal, honest, and alive. He emphasizes that true influence comes not from being the center of the story, but from creating space for others to see themselves in it.

Dr. Naylor unpacks lessons in leadership, trust, and service, including everything from rethinking board engagement and embracing unexpected collaborations to ensuring that museums remain accessible, transparent, and deeply human. Whether he’s hosting a championship parade or curating a solemn memorial, he leads with humility and purpose. His message is clear: institutions expand their influence when they open their doors, embrace complexity, and serve as platforms for collective memory and community connection.

Host: Anthony Shop
Guest: Dr. Matthew Naylor
Producer: The Communications Board
Sponsor: The George Washington University College of Professional Studies

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