After an extensive search campaign, Robert Bryan, President of the Historical Society of Kent County proudly announces that a new executive team will assume leadership in July. Dr. Susanne DeBerry Cole will take over as executive director, assisted by deputy director Amanda Tuttle-Smith. They will replace Karen Emerson, who is relocating to New York State. As it moves from its 18th century house museum to new headquarters on Chestertown’s busiest corner, the Society looks forward to innovative programs to make Kent County history more relevant to both the community and visitors.
Dr. Susanne DeBerry Cole holds a Ph.D. in American History from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio. An experienced university professor, she also has worked at the Maryland Historical Society. A relative newcomer to Chestertown, she will continue to teach at Washington College and looks forward to involving her students in the Society’s activities. Amanda Tuttle-Smith recently earned an M.A. in American History from Salisbury University, where she was employed at the Edward H. Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture. A Galena resident, she has considerable archival expertise and is especially interested in developing programs for school children.
Both are excited to begin work at the Bordley History Center at the corner of High and Cross Streets, where renovation work is almost complete. Over the summer, the Society’s research collection and genealogical materials will be moved to a fully accessible library on the second floor and the ground floor Alexander Rasin Learning Center will be transformed into an attractive space for exhibits, lectures and other public programs. The Society is grateful to its members and many other supporters who have made these changes possible. The public is invited to visit both the new headquarters and the Society’s website, kentcountyhistory.org, to learn more about ongoing programs and activities.
Barbara in den Bosch says
Wonderful! Well done, Search committee!