Androscoggin Historical Society members elected officers and directors to one-year terms during its annual meeting on June 7 in the Danville Grange.

Officers include David Chittim, president; Penny Jessop, vice president; Sonia Jack, secretary; and Curtis Jack, treasurer.

Directors include Rebecca Drew, Beverly Robbins, Joline Froton, Douglas Hodgkin, Laura Juraska and Elizabeth Young.

According to a news release from the society, the newly elected president is a semi-retired civil engineer and land surveyor who lives in an 1801 home in Lewiston with Penny, his partner of 50 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering at Northeastern University and a master’s degree in environmental engineering at Purdue University.

With both sons married and their farming days behind them, they have redirected their focus to civic engagement, principally with the historical society, but also Stanton Bird Club, Lewiston Historic Preservation Review Board, which he chairs; and other local public-benefit organizations.

Chittim served as treasurer of the society for nine years, during which time the value of its investment portfolio tripled, giving the board greater flexibility in planning future growth.

As a result of his stewardship, the board acquired the financial capacity to purchase a new home and begin the transition from its comfortable third-floor existence to becoming a force in the center of downtown Lewiston. With the board, the society is developing educational outreach programs and has plans to expand its access and availability with more open hours each week and an increased on-line presence.

During his tenure, Chittim is focusing on extending and enhancing the momentum developed by Past-President Curt Jack , with whom he switched roles, and ensuring that 93 Lisbon St. will take full advantage of its accessibility in the heart of downtown.

Additionally, he is encouraging the society’s membership to become involved in the day-to-day workings of the society, contributing their skills in areas of their interest or expertise. This will also help transition the board away from its traditional working board function toward one directing its attention to proactive planning and broader utilization of the society’s hidden resources.

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