The Montclair History Center announces that Executive Director Jane Eliasof has taken a new position outside the museum world and will be stepping down at the end of May, 2022.
When Jane began volunteering with us in 2008 it was clear that she was someone special, and we were delighted when she joined us as Executive Director in 2010. These past 12 years have been eventful ones for the Montclair History Center. Jane not only elevated the educational programming that is the basis of our mission, but led significant new initiatives, with the full support of and close collaboration with the Board, staff and volunteers: reinterpretation of the Crane House into the Crane House and Historic YWCA, partnership in the Montclair Community Farm Coalition, renaming/rebranding the organization, securing a viable future for the Shultz House, and increasing accessibility of our collections through digitization. Additionally, we’re proud of the pivot to new programming developed since March 2020 and ongoing plans to improve ADA accessibility at our Orange Road campus. We are in a good place.
We are delighted for our friend and colleague as she follows her heart to a wonderful new opportunity. We will be forever grateful for Jane’s leadership, warmth, creativity, and love of history.
Jane asks us to share this with you:
“It’s not easy to leave a job – particularly one with so many people you care for and enjoy working with, a mission you believe deeply in, and one that has given me some wonderful memories and opportunities. We have grown and learned together, and I am proud of all that we have accomplished. Please know that this is not good-bye. I will remain a steadfast supporter of the Montclair History Center’s work and trust that all of you will do so, too. I plan to continue to be part of this amazing organization.”
And we plan to hold Jane to that promise of continued involvement…you may see her at next year’s Herb Sale or leading a walking tour around town.
As we seek a new Executive Director, our staff, members of our Board of Trustees, and volunteers are working together to keep our offices running smoothly and programs vibrant. We look forward to your continued support as we navigate this transition, welcome a new Executive Director in the near future, and continue our mission to preserve and share the history of Montclair in relevant and engaging ways.
On behalf of the Montclair History Center Board of Trustees and staff,
Elizabeth Hynes, Board President (liz@montclairhistory.org)
Helen Fallon, Board Vice President (helen@montclairhistory.org)