By Eliza Rohda ‘26

York University’s Clayton Museum of Ancient History is excited to announce the hiring of its new curator, Rebekah Ross. 

 

Having earned master’s degrees in Archeology and Biblical Studies from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina, Ross is currently a doctoral candidate in Archeology through Lipscomb University. She brings years of experience in research and archeology, having served as an excavator at a 5th century site in Cyprus for eight years. 

 

Ever since she was a child, Ross has loved being outside and digging in the dirt, but she didn’t consider studying archeology until later in life. Originally a Literature major, she assumed she would get her doctorate in English. But after attending a Bible study over the book of Isaiah, she began to explore other areas of interest. 

 

“My favorite part of the study was when we were talking about the culture back then, the background information and how it connects to evidence we have outside of the Bible,” Ross said. This newfound passion led her to archeology, and in 2012 she did her first dig in Cyprus. “I absolutely loved it,” Ross said. “I got to get dirty as a job, and then spend the other months in a library.” 

 

During her journey to York, Ross was overwhelmed by the welcome she received. The excitement of having a museum curator was palpable on campus, and she described the enthusiastic welcome to YU as “refreshing.” 

 

Although Ross only started in January and says she’s still adjusting to the role, she has no shortage of ideas for the museum. In addition to plans for a gift shop, Ross wants to create a greater focus on the Hellenistic period and provide more opportunities for interactive exhibits. She hopes to find ways to appeal to all of a visitor’s senses and to create more immersive experiences, giving visitors a fuller picture of ancient life. 

 

“I want to tell a story,” Ross said. “One of the coolest things that archaeology brings to the table is that we can provide context, and we can help you understand what’s going on in the Bible, because although this was written for us, it was not written to us.” 

 

As Ross reflected on the opportunity to work as the Clayton Museum’s curator, she expressed nothing but gratitude: “I don’t have the words to express how awesome this is,” she said. “I’m glad to be here!”