NMAAHC Ambassadors: Embry Kidd & Ashaki Noni Holmes-Kidd

NMAAHC Ambassadors Program: What inspired them to join: We both grew up with parents who were very active in their respective communities.  Our parents instilled in us the importance of giving back.  We are also history and art lovers, so the Ambassadors Program seemed like the perfect opportunity to merge our desire to give back with contributing to such a wonderful cause. * On African American philanthropy’s role in the success of this project: We both think that philanthropy is important regardless of  a person’s ethnicity or background. But because the Museum will tell the story of the African-American experience, and given all that has gone into establishing the Museum, it is especially important that African Americans support it.  * How becoming a donor has impacted them: The museum will be located in a very prominent spot on our National Mall, which reflects the importance of African Americans to the foundation and prosperity of our country.  Every time we drive by the Museum’s construction site, we are gratified to know that in some small way, we are helping the Museum come to life.

 Ashaki: “Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.” – Coco Chanel

Embry: Never settle.

Currently reading:

Ashaki: Lean In.

Embry: The Power of Babel: A Natural History of Language

PLAYING FAVORITES: Hotel: The Captain Lord Mansion is a charming bed and breakfast in Kennebunkport, Maine, where we got engaged.  The hotel was perfect for the occasion, with stained-glass windows, wood-burning fireplaces in the rooms, great food, and incredibly friendly people in an idyllic setting. * Bar to meet friends for drinks: We often go to both The Passenger and The Gibson.  Both have great cocktail programs and relaxed settings.  The Gibson is nice when you want to have a good conversation without talking over the crowd. * Brunch spot: Our favorite place is Locolat, a small Belgian café in our neighborhood. We love the eggs and bacon Belgian style with a green herb waffle. * Last place you dined out: The Red Hen.  It has very high quality food at reasonable prices.  Embry really enjoyed the butternut squash soup and grilled short ribs, and Ashaki loved the duck crostini and lamb meatballs with soft polenta.