BETHEL — At a recent meeting, the board of trustees of the Bethel Historical Society approved a staff restructuring plan. The restructuring, developed jointly by the board and key staff, realigns duties to focus on achieving the society’s new Strategic Plan.

Stanley R. Howe, who has been executive director since 1974, will become associate director and director of education and research in early 2010, and will retain a number of longtime functions, including the handling of all press releases and editorship of “The Courier.” He will be active in development activities, serving as a liaison for foundations, donors and federal grant projects.

Howe will assume a more active role in the historical research operations of the society and continue to arrange for educational programming, lectures and conferences, and will oversee selected events. The change is intended to provide time for Howe to work on several publication projects, including a full-length biography of William Bingham II.

Randall H. Bennett, who has served as the society’s assistant director and curator of collections since 1986, will assume the post of executive director, focusing on the general management of the society, working closely with the board of trustees and the board-level committees of the society, and overseeing the Strategic Planning process, programming and exhibits. He will also continue his responsibilities as the society’s curator of collections.

Development Director James Dock will oversee the annual fund, development events, the membership program, publication of the “Broad Street Herald” and marketing and public relations efforts. Danna Nickerson, the society’s administrative assistant, museum shop manager and assistant treasurer, will continue in her role as bookkeeper and staff support person for all three directors.

“These changes will bring a fresh energy to the society, as we anticipate it will reach new levels of achievement in the future,” President and board chairwoman Susan Herlihy said. “It’s so gratifying to work with such a talented staff who will be applying their expertise in many exciting and creative ways.”

For more information about the Bethel Historical Society’s programs, exhibits, educational activities and publications, visit www.bethelhistorical.org. Information also may be obtained by calling 824-2908 or 1-800-824-2910, sending an e-mail to info@bethelhistorical.org or mailing to P.O. Box 12, Bethel, ME 04217.

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