The Simsbury Historical Society (SHS) board of directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Jane Spatcher McAlpine as executive director. Ms. McAlpine brings more than 20 years of corporate work experience and a record of community involvement to SHS. She was selected from a field of strong candidates to oversee SHS operations, properties, events, community relations, and strategic growth initiatives.
SHS Board of Directors President Bob Moody expressed the excitement of the board and search committee on the appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Jane as our new executive director,” he said. “Her corporate background and business expertise, strong work ethic, and deep roots within the Simsbury community uniquely position her to lead our organization forward, helping us continue to preserve and celebrate our town’s rich history.”
A graduate of Simsbury High School, Ms. McAlpine is a fourth generation town resident. She earned a B.S. in Business Administration from University at Albany – State University of New York and began her career in advertising. Later work experience includes marketing, communications, and management roles at Morris Group, Inc. of Windsor, Connecticut and at Ryan, LLC of Dallas, most recently. She previously served on the executive board of the Simsbury Pollinator Pathway and held past leadership roles with the North Simsbury Coalition and Squadron Line School PTO. At SHS, Ms. McAlpine will focus on strengthening community relations, overseeing staff and volunteers, fundraising, grant writing, and maintaining financial stability.
“The experiences of growing up in Simsbury, working outside the area for several years, and then raising my family here instilled in me a deep appreciation of our community’s heritage” Ms. McAlpine stated. “I’m eager to work with our dedicated staff and volunteers to ensure that Simsbury’s historical legacy continues to educate and inspire future generations.”
Established in 1911, SHS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Simsbury, Connecticut, a picturesque New England town founded in 1670. SHS owns and maintains twelve historic and modern buildings and structures on nearly three acres of grounds with period gardens and native plantings in Simsbury center, making it unique among local historical societies in size and scope. It offers community activities and programs for all ages throughout the year. Hours of operation are Thursday through Saturday from noon to 4:00 p.m. Public tours of about 45 minutes duration are offered Saturdays at 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Group tours and research assistance are available by appointment.