Meet the Staff

Rachel Helvering, Executive Director

Rachel joined the Polk Home in August 2021 after 8 years at the Tennessee State Museum. Rachel is a graduate of MTSU and aside from James K. Polk’s era, she enjoys learning about the World War II era as her grandfather was a WWII veteran. She is looking forward to getting to know Columbia more through the exciting programs the Polk Home has planned.

Eli Cadle, Curator and Educator

Eli first worked at the Polk Home as an undergraduate intern in 2021, and spent three years as a docent between 2022-2025. Eli currently attends MTSU where he is finishing up his Master’s Degree in Public History. He hopes to bring new perspectives with his familiarity with the site and its collections, but also with his experience outside of the Polk Home as an archivist. 

© 2026 President James K. Polk Home and Museum

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