The Plymouth Antiquarian Society is launching a search for an Executive Director to lead the nonprofit organization as it begins its 105th year.
The search commences as the Society’s current Executive Director, Dr. Anne Mason, prepares to depart in February. Citing the importance of focusing on family, and the pending birth of her first child, Dr. Mason expressed both her gratitude for having the privilege to serve and the difficulty of making the decision to leave. “As a lifelong Plymouthean, I care deeply about the preservation of our community’s history,” she said. “It has been an honor to serve an organization that is committed to that mission.”
Dr. Mason, who holds a Ph.D. from the University of Delaware, has served as Executive Director for eight years. During this time, she helped the Society complete a major relandscaping project at the Hedge House Museum on Water Street, navigate the uncertain years of the Covid-19 pandemic, and embrace new opportunities for community engagement through virtual and collaborative programs.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, President Andrea Daly remarked, “As our Executive Director, Anne’s expertise and commitment have been invaluable in sustaining the Society. She will be deeply missed, but we wish her and her family all the best as she begins a new chapter in her life.”
While the Board undertakes its search for a new Executive Director, it has appointed Dr. Walter Powell as Interim Director, effective January 8th. He will work closely with Dr. Mason to make the transition as smooth as possible, and to maintain continuity of programs until a new Director is hired. A resident of Plymouth, Dr. Powell holds a Ph.D. from Kent State University, and has more than 35 years of experience working for both the public and non-profits in the field of Public History. A past Board member of the Plymouth Antiquarian Society, prior to his retirement he served as the first Executive Director of the General Society of Mayflower Descendants and for 17 years as Director of Planning and Historic Preservation for the Borough of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
The job posting for the full-time Executive Director position is available on the Society’s website.
