It is my distinct honor and privilege to join the team at the Geneva History Center as the new Executive Director. As President of the Illinois Association of Museums, I have watched this excellent organization as it has worked to professionalize its programs, events
and exhibitions and have been impressed by what I have seen. I am both humbled and thrilled to join the Board, staff and volunteers as we work together to continue that trend of progress in the future and share the history of Geneva with patrons of all ages.

My own passion for history began as a child when my father and I explored the adventures of my great-great grandfather, a veteran of the Civil War. When I attended Rockford College, I elected to major in History and obtained my B.A. At that time, I also began my career in museums acting as a docent for the Time Museum. I continued working at the museum during my graduate studies at Northern Illinois University where I acquired an M.A. in History with a focus in Museum Administration.

Upon completing my degree, I went to work for Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum in Rockford where I signed on as the institution’s first Educator. My tenure at the museum gave me the outlet to publish Robert Tinker’s Rockford, an award-winning guide to local history and architecture.

Following my time at Tinker Cottage, I served as the Education Resource Manager at Midway Village & Museum Center where I managed a staff of 24 employees and oversaw programming for all ages. It was while working there that I met the love of my life, my
wife Sonali who visited one of the museum's exhibition. Most recently, I have worked as the Development Officer at Rockford Public Library where my chief responsibilities were fundraising and grant-writing.

It is my sincere hope that my professional experience will be of use to the Geneva History Center as we plan for the future. I am eager to help develop the museum’s endowment, providing for the long-term growth and stability of our fine institution. I firmly believe that the true value of a museum lies not just in its collection, but in its service to the public good.

Likewise, in the 21st century, the best history museums do more than simply interpret the past; they provide a sacred public space where visitors of all ages can freely exchange ideas, connect with their community and ultimately better understand the present, for an
improved future. With these principals in mind, I will be working with all of you to identify exhibitions, programs and events that will spark the imagination of our youth, promote life long learning and build a greater sense of community. Ultimately, working together, we can make the Geneva History Center a vital resource for our community and a catalyst for positive change in the years to come.