On October 29, 2002, a group of committed individuals from the Austin community convened with Ms. Bernadette Phifer, Curator of the George Washington Carver Museum. The objective of this meeting was to establish an organization dedicated to supporting the mission of the Carver Museum. Ms. Phifer warmly welcomed the attendees and elaborated on the museum’s needs. She shared the museum’s history, mission, and the necessity for volunteers to assist with the new facility under construction. She emphasized the crucial role that this organization would play in shaping the future, particularly for children who would greatly benefit from the community’s support.

Mr. Arthur Sauls, who was instrumental in recommending attendees, spoke about his motivations for inviting each individual and expressed hope that they would contribute to the formation of the new organization. Ms. Phifer outlined various volunteering opportunities and the efforts required, such as serving as docents, assisting in the museum store, supporting exhibits and organizing receptions, along with providing financial backing for the museum. The following individuals attended this initial meeting to explore their interest in forming a new organization: Mr. Leon Roberts, Mrs. Nettie Smothers, Ms. Martha Rison, Mrs. Jewel Boswell Hudson, Mr. James Talbert, Ms. Cynthia Harry, Dr. Charles Akins, Mr. Weldon Farmer, Ms. Deborah Roberts, Ms. Nancy Skinner, and Ms. Lillian Kerley.

A subsequent meeting took place on November 26, 2002, at the George Washington Carver Museum at 6:30 p.m., attended by seven individuals. During this gathering, Ms. Phifer stressed the importance of establishing a strong foundation for the new organization and setting things up correctly. Mr. Sauls reiterated the significance of each participant’s involvement in this endeavor. The group discussed the necessity of creating a name, drafting bylaws, determining dues, and electing officers for the organization.

On January 21, 2003, at 6:00 p.m., seventeen members of the Austin community met at the Conley-Guerrero Senior Activity Center to officially organize the George Washington Carver Ambassadors. In this meeting, the participants established a critical part of the Ambassadors’ mission: to help the museum grow and support its educational initiatives.