April 26, 2021
This year, we had the pleasure of bestowing the 2021 Life Saver Award on Aaron Theis of the Denver Society. We wanted to get to know Aaron better so we asked him a few questions. We hope you enjoy reading his responses as much as we did!
What interests you about archaeology?
I was always attracted to ancient things of all sorts: objects, myths, legends, and especially old books. I used to tell my field school students that archaeology is the ultimate subject, a combination of history, science, geology, engineering, architecture, language, museums, technology, mathematics, and a variety of sciences which both make it fertile ground for endless engagement with people and cultures the world over.
How did you find out about the AIA?
When I worked for the Colorado Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, one of my colleagues was involved as the webmaster/board member and I started attending the meetings.
What made you decide to get more involved with the Denver Society?
Quite literally the first meeting I attended I answered the call to help the board. The aforementioned colleague ended up getting a job elsewhere soon after so I took over the website and communications and have done so ever since, winning the best website award back in 2012. Following an injury in 2016 I withdrew from active participation in archaeology, and AIA is how I continue to stay involved.
