History Affiliates is pleased to announce the keynote speaker at this year's History in Philadelphia (HIP) Awards will be the First Lady of Pennsylvania, Susan Manbeck Corbett. With her background in museum work and abiding love of Pennsylvania history and culture, Ms. Corbett is the perfect person to inaugurate the awards program for small history and heritage organizations in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Susan Corbett became the First Lady of Pennsylvania when her husband, Tom Corbett, was sworn in as Governor in 2011. Born in nearby Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Susan grew up in Schuylkill County and met her husband while attending Lebanon Valley College. The First Lady has always held a deep appreciation for the cultural heritage of Pennsylvania, and her impressive resume in the museum field includes postings at Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Eisenhower National Historic Site, and the Gettysburg Foundation. She currently serves on the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and promotes tourism as Pennsylvania's "First Tourist," the state's official tourism ambassador.

"Our commonwealth has countless museums and historic sites that showcase our rich history and heritage," Corbett said. "From the historic events that have shaped our nation today, to world-class museums and breathtaking scenery, Pennsylvania has a great deal to offer."

A large crowd of representatives from the Philadelphia area's heritage community will be in attendance on October 19, 2012, to hear Ms. Corbett speak and to see their colleagues honored for exceptional achievements.