The American Motorcycle Association (AMA) announced a key leadership change at its flagship institution, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum in Pickerington, Ohio. Effective immediately, Makenzi Martin will assume the position of curator, overseeing daily operations, exhibitions, merchandise, promotions, and fundraising initiatives.
From events manager to museum curator
Martin entered the AMA in 2023 as the organization’s events manager. Over a three-year span she orchestrated nationwide gatherings, most notably the AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the regular Bike Nights. Her tenure was marked by a steady increase in event attendance and a noticeable boost in the museum’s fundraising outcomes. Reflecting on her experience, Martin said, “Over the past three and a half years, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with the museum team through events like AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days and the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Along the way, I have developed a real passion for the museum and the role these events play in supporting its mission.”
She added, “To me, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is so much more than a museum filled with motorcycles and memorabilia. It’s a place where the stories, people and passion that built motorcycling live on. I’m excited to play a part in making sure those stories continue to be told.” This sentiment underscores her vision for the curatorial role: preserving motorcycling heritage while expanding its public reach.
Transitioning leadership and honoring legacy
The appointment comes as longtime Program Manager Paula Schremser prepares to retire from her full-time duties after a 13-year tenure that began in 2010. Schremser, a fixture at the museum, will remain involved on a part-time basis as a Development Coordinator, ensuring continuity in donor relations and program development. The American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation praised both women, with President Rob Dingman noting, “Makenzi excelled as our events manager, as we saw our nationwide reach at events grow exponentially while our AMA-operated events boomed in popularity. She is an incredibly hard worker and a talented individual, and I have the utmost confidence that she will continue to thrive in her new role as curator of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.”
In her new capacity, Martin will continue to plan and execute Hall of Fame events, a responsibility she has already mastered, while adding oversight of the museum’s permanent and rotating exhibits. Her dual focus on storytelling and fiscal sustainability aims to keep the Hall of Fame at the forefront of motorcycling culture.
How fans can support the museum
The Hall of Fame encourages enthusiasts to contribute to its mission. Interested individuals can explore support options at /support/, where donations help fund new exhibits, educational programs, and event programming. Visitors planning a trip can find details on hours, admission, and special events at /visit/. With Martin’s fresh perspective and Schremser’s seasoned guidance, the museum is poised for an engaging new chapter.
