Rouleen Gartner, will leave the organization on May 1. Gartner has accepted a position as the executive director of LaunchPAD Children’s Museum in Sioux City, Iowa.
Gartner said, “I have really enjoyed and appreciated my time with the Northwoods Children’s Museum and all the opportunities it has brought me. I have a love for the organization that will never fade.”
“We will miss Rouleen and the exceptional leadership she brought to the museum,” NCM board president Leah Van Zile stated. “Her passion, integrity and vision for the future helped bring NCM to new levels. Rouleen approached every day with enthusiasm and joy. We wish her the best as she accepts a new challenge in Sioux City, Iowa. Now we look forward to transitioning to our next leader as we continue our mission of enriching lives, supporting families, and encouraging a love of learning through interactive play,”
In her 18-year career at NCM, Gartner spent the last 9 years as executive director. During her tenure the museum has seen an increase in membership and general admissions, unveiled six new exhibits and hosted three of the most successful annual fundraisers in the museum’s history. Other developments under Gartner’s leadership include increased board participation, increased number of school field trips, facility upgrades and expanded operating hours.
The Northwoods Children’s Museum is working on the transition process. Last fall the board created an assistant director position and hired Aubrey Dalbec, who holds a post-graduate degree and has strong connections to the northwoods. Dalbec will serve as interim director.
