Search for the President

The Massachusetts Historical Society (MHS), the oldest institution of its kind in the United States, seeks a dynamic and accomplished leader to serve as its next President. The President will work with the Board and with the staff of the MHS to promote its mission, elevate its profile, and advance historical knowledge. This effort will include the further development and implementation of the Society’s strategic plan, and the strengthening of its financial base.

Founded in 1791, the Society is a private non-profit organization. Its extraordinary collections—over 13 million manuscripts, photographs, printed materials, and artifacts—include the personal papers of John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and Thomas Jefferson; maps, prints, drawings, and portraits; and historical objects, including the epaulets worn by George Washington at Yorktown and the pen used by Abraham Lincoln to sign the Emancipation Proclamation. These materials have served as the inspiration for the work and learning of countless scholars, authors, and students of all ages.

In recent years the Society has broadened its programming, reaching new audiences and raising its profile regionally and nationally. Its online catalog, ABIGAIL, and new collection guides have opened the collections to all, and digitization efforts have made more and more material available to researchers. The number of visitors to the library is growing, and the number of programs, conferences, and research fellowships has increased. The MHS has also convened academicians and public intellectuals in discussions about the current state and future of the historical profession.

 The next President will expand on these efforts and be a vigorous and compelling champion for the Society, setting direction and advocating for the work of the MHS, and continuing to raise its profile. The Society seeks a superb strategist with the ability to build, direct, and inspire. The successful candidate will have a strong appreciation for public history and the proven ability to identify and develop sources of support for the Society’s strategic requirements and aspirations.

 The Massachusetts Historical Society has retained the services of Isaacson, Miller to assist with this search. A full description of the role of President is available on the Isaacson, Miller website listed below.” Confidential inquiries, nominations, referrals, and resumes with cover letters should be sent electronically and in confidence to:

Anita Tien, Vice President
Micah Pierce, Associate
Isaacson Miller, Inc.
263 Summer Street, 7th Floor
Boston, MA 02210
www.imsearch.com/6074

 The Massachusetts Historical Society is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities and encourages applications from these and other protected group members.