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History Museum on the Square has galleries depicting Route 66, the Civil War in Springfield, Wild Bill Hickok and the American West, and other historical events.
SBJ file
History Museum on the Square has galleries depicting Route 66, the Civil War in Springfield, Wild Bill Hickok and the American West, and other historical events.

History Museum hires new executive director

Posted online

A new executive director is in place at History Museum on the Square Inc.

Sean FitzGibbons started today after a national search was conducted by the museum's board of trustees, according to a news release.

"The search committee was impressed with his experience managing museums and his creativity,” said Mary Haseltine McQueary, board president, in the release. "In addition, Sean's broad background in the arts and history education, and his understanding of the importance of sharing stories, is the perfect match for our mission."

FitzGibbons succeeds interim leader Charlotte McCoy, who is returning to her role as business manager of the museum. McCoy's interim role started in July, when former Executive Director Katie Turer resigned her post to move out of state after four months on the job.

FitzGibbons has more than 10 years of experience as a leader at museums and nonprofits, according to the release. Previous roles include senior exhibits analyst for the city of San Antonio’s Department of Arts and Culture and executive director of the Meadows Museum of Art at Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana. His LinkedIn profile indicates he most recently worked as executive director for Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum in Butler County, Ohio.

"It is quite evident that there is a strong historical connection between the museum and the local communities, and it is my goal to continue demonstrating the relevance that our collection holds to our daily lives," FitzGibbons said in the release. "I see incredible potential for programming and community outreach, and I am very excited about working with the museum team as we plan innovative ways to engage the public and tell the varied stories of the region."

The board selected FitzGibbons from a pool of three finalists, McCoy said via email.

Prior to Turer's leadership stint, the museum was led by longtime director John Sellars, who was central to its multiyear relocation project to Park Central Square from Historic City Hall in the 2010s, according to past reporting. Sellars is now executive director emeritus.

The History Museum on the Square has galleries depicting Route 66, the Civil War in Springfield, Wild Bill Hickok and the American West, and other historical events.

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