HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROCKLAND APPOINTS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Following an extensive regional search and selection process The Trustees of the Historical Society of Rockland County have announced the appointment of Susan Curry Deeks as Executive Director. Ms. Deeks brings to HSRC many years of experience as a leader in the museum sector, as well as in the nonprofit and for-profit publishing industry. As executive director, she will oversee HSRC’s planning and programs to ensure that the Society functions as a high-profile, visitor-centered, public service-oriented organization.

“We are excited to begin working with Susan Deeks as she takes the lead of the county’s Historical Society. Our mission is broad and challenging, and we feel confident that she has the energy and creativity to propel the HSRC into the future,” said Clare Bowes Sheridan, president of the HSRC’s Board of Trustees.

“It is a great honor to join the HSRC at this moment in its distinguished history,” Deeks said. “I am excited about working with the dedicated Board, staff, and supporters to focus on the Society’s strengths, build momentum to connect with visitors, and serve the richly diverse communities of Rockland County.”

Deeks comes to the HSRC with more than two decades of experience developing compelling programming for historic sites and museums. Most recently, she was assistant director at the Hermitage Museum in Bergen County, where she was responsible for setting and meeting strategic goals, managing daily operations, and conceiving and implementing new ways to enhance the museum’s relevance to, and visibility in, the community. Deeks has also developed educational programs and enhanced interpretive materials for other state-owned historic sites in New Jersey using traditional and multimedia formats. She has been a member of the American Association for State and Local History; the Association of Living History, Farm, and Agricultural Museums; the Greater Hudson Heritage Network; and the Mid-Atlantic Association of Museums, among other industry associations.

Ms. Deeks started her duties on September 18, 2013, in time to help celebrate Rockland History Month in October. The HSRC Board invites the public to meet Ms. Deeks during the annual “Fall Family Festival” on the grounds of the Jacob Blauvelt House, 20 Zukor Road, New City, on Saturday, October 6, 12 – 4 p.m.

  Curry Deeks, Historical Society of Rockland, HSRC