NEWS RELEASE: Historic Huguenot Street Strengthens Leadership By Promoting Rebecca Mackey To Director of Operations

NEW PALTZ, NY — Rebecca Mackey has been named the Director of Operations of Historic Huguenot Street, the first in the museum’s history.  As such, she will immediately assume responsibility for the day-to-day management of the 120-year-old institution.  The Board of Directors created the new position to effectively address the increased importance of attention to organizational administration and meet the challenges of preserving buildings and collections that date to the 1600s.  Mackey will also oversee the logistical implementation of an expanded array of public programs and guest services.

Mackey, an alumna of SUNY New Paltz, began her career at Huguenot Street in 2008 as Director of Visitor Services.  She has also managed programs and tours.  The Board of Directors eliminated the position of Interim Executive Director, which Mackey had filled since October 2013.

“I am honored to have this special opportunity to serve Historic Huguenot Street and the New Paltz community,” Mackey said. “Huguenot Street is a underutilized resource for the Hudson River Valley and the state of New York, so I’m looking forward to putting my experience to work with an excellent staff and Board of Directors to help move the museum forward.  It’s an exciting time here and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”

“Rebecca’s considerable experience with Huguenot Street and its daily operations makes her the perfect choice for such an important new role and we’re delighted that she has agreed to take it on,” said Mary Etta Schneider, President of the Board of Trustees. “As the museum enters a period of growth and renewal, we are certain that Rebecca, with her unique skills and talent, will provide just the kind of leadership that we need as the head of operations.”

Mackey’s appointment is the first of a series of major moves that Huguenot Street will announce over the coming weeks as the institution embarks on an ambitious strategic planning process. It will include a number of important changes, including a fresh emphases on enhancing the guest experience, highlighting the museum’s many assets, and building a solid financial foundation. For press inquiries, please contact us at media@huguenotstreet.org.