When she oversaw the History Center of Freeborn County, Stephanie Kibler worked to show people how history shapes our everyday lives.
As the new SPAM® Museum Manager, she has the same goal.
That’s right — the famous meat in the blue-and-yellow can. The stuff that nourished Allied soldiers in World War II, was the inspiration for the title of a Monty Python play, and has a well-deserved place in pantries and folklore all over the world.
The iconic SPAM® brand.
“Everyone has a story about it — everyone,” Stephanie says.
That holds true for her as well. In fact, Stephanie’s story takes her back to her childhood and the years spent under her parents’ roof.
“My dad ate fried eggs and SPAM® products all the time,” she says.
In the first half of 2025, Stephanie was already in her seventh year at the History Center of Freeborn County. She noticed one day that Hormel Foods was looking for someone new to lead its SPAM® Museum. A lifelong Minnesotan, Stephanie had been to the attraction. In fact, she took her history center team over for a visit two years ago.
“What a SPAM™tastic opportunity,” she says.
She applied for the position, admittedly on a lark. After all, how often do positions like this open up?
Her experience and authenticity impressed immediately, says Brian Olson, brand public relations lead at Hormel Foods. Stephanie got the job of a lifetime.
“She’s a thoughtful leader who listens, collaborates and inspires others to get involved,” Brian says, adding, “Her commitment to making history relevant and accessible makes her the perfect person to guide the SPAM® Museum into its next chapter.”
Leading with Head and Heart
Now that she’s settling in as the museum’s new manager, Stephanie is keeping a mental to-do list. In addition to her role as the manager of the SPAM® Museum, she oversees the company archives — a treasure trove of Hormel Foods artifacts from the last century and more.
As for the crown jewel — the SPAM® Museum — Stephanie finds it nothing short of “impressive.”
“The way the SPAMbassadors™ stepped up [while the manager position was vacant] — it’s just a great group of folks … they didn’t miss a beat serving smiles, stories, and SPAM™ples one visitor at a time.”
As for exhibits, that’s the part she likes the best.
“I love the creative side of jobs — this is a fun fit for me,” she says.
That’s right up her alley, Brian says, and that points to a really great future.
“The SPAM® Museum plays a vital role in supporting local tourism and community vitality,” he says. “Stephanie’s expertise in community engagement, tourism and museum management will ensure that impact continues to grow.”
