Secretary Susan Kluttz, N.C. Department of Cultural Resources (NCDCR), today announced that Kelly Alexander has been selected as the new executive director of the N.C. Transportation Museum. Kelly has been on staff at the Transportation Museum for more than 25 years and is well equipped to lead the museum into the future.
"For years, Kelly Alexander has given dedicated and selfless service to the Transportation Museum and, over time, has taken on increasingly responsible roles," said Kluttz. "Her experience starting as a program specialist with the museum to chief operating officer with the foundation have afforded her a unique and comprehensive understanding of how this singular facility needs to grow and serve its visitors."
Alexander has planned programs, managed group operations, overseen revenue generating activities, managed finances for a capital renovation, created partnerships with community organizations, overseen growth in the foundation's operating budget from $500,000 to $2 million and provided leadership in developing programming and financial planning with the museum board and NCDCR.
"It's difficult to list just one rewarding aspect of working at the museum," Alexander explained. "I have met some incredible people who mentored me, listened to men who worked in the shops about their life at work and in the community, and met volunteers who spend their free time restoring equipment or giving tours. It is all gratifying.
"As interim director, Dr. Kevin Cherry has done an incredible job in growing and evolving the Transportation Museum as we searched for the executive director," added Kluttz. "We all owe him a debt of gratitude for his commitment to the museum and his ongoing efforts above and beyond anyone's expectations." Cherry is currently the Deputy Secretary of NCDCR and the Director of the Office of Archives and History.
Alexander holds a B.A. degree from Catawba College. She expects to continue relationships with state and local government agencies, Transportation Museum foundation, Norfolk-Southern, staff and volunteers.
"The future is looking bright for the museum," Alexander continued. "We have many exciting projects in process and additional ones in the planning stages. There are numerous events planned throughout the year that will bring thousands of visitors to the museum. With everyone working together we will see the museum continue to grow in economic impact and at the same time save an important part of our industrial heritage."
The N.C. Transportation Museum is part of the Division of State Historic Sites in NCDCR. It is located at 411 S. Salisbury Avenue, Spencer. The Museum preserves and interprets the history of transportation in the state.