Hermitage Staff Spotlight: Dana Lolas

Name: Ghost Tours at The Hermitage
Start: 2023-10-01T18:30:00-05:00
End: 2023-10-31T22:00:00-05:00
Location: The Hermitage

Every month, we introduce one of our amazing staff members and give more insight on what it’s like to work at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage! This month, we are spotlighting Dana Lolas, our Guest Services Manager.

What is your job title? Guest Services Manager
How long have you worked at The Hermitage? I started my job at The Hermitage in the fall of 2015.
Can you describe what you do in a few sentences? My team and I make sure that visitors have the best experience from the time they arrive until the time they leave. This includes checking them in, making sure they get to the right place at the right time and offering them advice on what not to miss during their visit. We also answer questions from Jackson’s presidential order number to where to find the best hot chicken.
How did you come to work at The Hermitage? I am a native Nashvillian (yes, a true unicorn), and I grew up thinking it would be cool to work here one day. I thought I would end up at the mansion, but Guest Services had a part-time opening, which I took to give me something to do while my kids were in school. I just have never left.
What is your favorite thing about working here? I get to see behind the curtain. I have had the privilege to get a closer glimpse of the some of the more treasured artifacts here at The Hermitage that are not always out on display because of their fragility. Also, working with our Vice President of Collections and Research/Chief Curator, Marsha Mullin, I have learned so much more about the property, the people and items that make up Jackson’s story.
What is something that surprised you about working at The Hermitage? Andrew Jackson’s softer side for family, especially the children. I’ve read family letters where it is discussed how he would intervene on behalf of nephews or nieces who were about to be punished because of mischief making. I don’t think people really know how much family played an important part of Jackson’s everyday life. From sending doll dresses to his granddaughter from Washington to providing stockings for the children to use at Christmas, he really did enjoy having the children around The Hermitage.