Interim Director Appointed

December 17, 2010

Dear Members and Friends,

I write to inform you that Debbie Rankin, Executive Director, has resigned from her position with the Montgomery County Historical Society (MCHS) effective January 7, 2011. I know you join me in wishing her the best of luck as she accepts her new role as Executive Director of the Montgomery Parks Foundation.

The Executive Committee has voted unanimously to name Beth Hickey as Interim Executive Director. While this is an unanticipated turn of events, the Executive Committee is assured the transition will be conducted quickly, efficiently and effectively. The committee has full confidence in Beth's understanding of the organization and in her ability to move MCHS forward.

Many of you know Beth and are aware she has been involved with MCHS since she was a high school intern over 12 years ago. While working on an undergraduate degree in anthropology at Northern Arizona University, Beth worked as an archaeologist in Arizona and New Mexico. In 2003, she returned to MCHS as the Waters House Site Director for a year before moving back to Arizona to pursue a Master's in Anthropology. Beth returned to MCHS in 2009 as a Project Assistant, then as Director of Outreach and progressed quickly to Assistant Director. Although she enjoys working as an archaeologist, and occasionally misses being out in the field, Beth has discovered that her true passion is sharing the past.

The entire board and staff are confident in Beth's ability and talent to guide the Montgomery County Historical Society into the future. I know you join me in welcoming Beth to her new role and I encourage you to stop by, call or email to show your support!

Regards and Happy Holidays!

                                       Jack Devine
                                       President, Board of Directors
                                       Montgomery County Historical Society