Doug Shipman takes the helm at the onset of the Society’s next 100 years.

Following a nationwide search made possible by a technical assistance grant from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving’s Non-Profit Support Program, The Windsor Historical Society’s Board of Directors has named Douglas R. Shipman its next Executive Director.

Shipman will take the helm on March 1st, upon the retirement of longtime Executive Director Christine Ermenc. Ermenc, who announced her plans to retire in early-2019, led the Society for nineteen years and developed it into a professional organization with programs recognized at local, state, and national levels.

Shipman comes to Windsor Historical Society following a career of leadership in both nonprofit and military organizations, most recently helping strengthen area nonprofits at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving’s Nonprofit Support Program. His museum experience includes Director of Education Programs with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Director of the Wethersfield Historical Society, and Director of Outreach Education and Special Services at Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation.

Shipman, a Connecticut native, credits his experiences in living history and nonprofit development for his passion for outreach and inclusion, and for helping people connect to and experience their history and culture.

“Doug has acquired such wonderful experience in historical interpreting, educating, fostering diversity and inclusion, and building and maintaining community relationships in all the organizations and communities he has been a part of,” remarked Society President Agnes Pier. “We are excited to tap into his energy and creativity to begin this new chapter for our organization, and we know he will serve the WHS and our community well.”

Established in 1921, the Society prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. It looks to Shipman to help shape a celebration and refocus the Society’s programs to engage the Windsor community in new ways.

“I’m thrilled to be working with the board, staff and members of the Windsor Historical Society and to have the opportunity to build on the incredible successes of its first century,” says Shipman. “WHS has long been recognized as one of the finest historical societies in the state, and it’s truly exciting to think about how we will build on this legacy of service to the Windsor community as we begin the next 100 years!”