Jamestown: Hometown 2.0 – Madison Cáceres, Curator at the North American Bison Discovery Center

Sometimes a new chapter begins with a leap of faith. For Madison Cáceres, that leap brought her to Jamestown in April 2025. Originally from Okmulgee, Oklahoma, Madison arrived with a unique background, a deep love for museums, and an openness to building a life in a new community. Today, she serves as the Curator and Herd Manager at the North American Bison Discovery Center, a role she considers one of the biggest milestones of her career so far.

A Nontraditional Path to the Bison Center

Madison’s journey to Jamestown was anything but linear. She began her professional life in English and education and spent time serving as a teacher in the Peace Corps. That experience eventually led her back to school, where she earned her master’s degree in Art History.

From there, Madison worked a variety of museum roles, gaining hands-on experience that ultimately led her to the opportunity at the Bison Discovery Center. When the position opened, she took the chance.

“I moved here for my job at the Bison Center,” Madison shared. “But what’s kept me here is everything else Jamestown has to offer.”

Finding Community in Jamestown

Since arriving, Madison has been struck by how welcoming Jamestown feels.

“I’ve lived in a lot of places, and this has by far been the most welcoming,” she said. “I love the weather, and I love how much there is to do in town. Jamestown has a lot of variety for a ‘small’ community.”

Having lived in larger cities like Houston, Tulsa, and Bentonville, Madison quickly noticed what sets Jamestown apart.

“It’s so much more personal,” she explained. “There’s no match for the community here. People understand what it’s like to start over, and they genuinely want to help you grow and flourish.”

Local Favorites and How She Spends Her Time

When she’s not caring for the bison herd or curating exhibits, Madison enjoys exploring local favorites with friends and family. You might find her at trivia night at Drift Prairie, browsing Bufftown Bargains, Joan’s Estate Sales, or Nita’s Attic, or catching a movie at the Bison 6 Cinema with her husband.

When asked to recommend a must visit spot for newcomers, her answer comes easily.

“The North American Bison Discovery Center, and specifically their pasture tours,” Madison said. “You get to see the bison up close and personal and learn all about their history and restoration while feeding them treats from a safe distance.”

Advice for Young Professionals

Madison’s advice for young professionals considering a move to Jamestown is simple and enthusiastic.

“Do it,” she said. “Jamestown is so welcoming, there are a ton of activities, and you will have a town that truly welcomes you and wants to get to know you.”

Looking Ahead

Perhaps the strongest endorsement of all comes from Madison herself.

“If you can’t tell, I am a Jamestown fan,” she said. “I’ve never lived somewhere where I thought I could settle long term until I moved here.”

From career opportunities to meaningful community connections, Madison’s story reflects what Jamestown’s Hometown 2.0 is all about.