Executive Director Alison Costanzo
It’s hard to believe that five years have gone by since I started at the St. Charles History Museum, and when I look back at all that has been accomplished, it really has been an honor to bring the Museum into the forefront of the St. Charles community. I knew prior to coming on that there were going to be significant challenges, but I also knew that I could make a difference and make the Museum a place that the community could take pride in. Coming to the St. Charles, I knew the only way to make it successful was to invest myself fully in the organization and, in many ways, create a family. I have been fortunate enough to have had an incredibly talented board, staff, interns, and volunteers over the years. I couldn’t have made this place what it is without their time, dedication, and support.
Along this journey, I have had the opportunity to work with and meet wonderful people who love this community and the Museum. One of my fondest memories which is a relatively recent one at our Annual Membership and Volunteer appreciation event. To see everyone here having a wonderful time and enjoying the Museum is what I wanted from the start. To see that moment is humbling and fills me with great satisfaction.
I have always felt that everything happens for a reason and that I came to the Museum at the right time. I know that this is the right time for my departure, though it is very difficult to say goodbye. There is something very special about St. Charles, there is a love and respect for history that is weaved into the culture of this community. I am proud and privileged that I had the opportunity to be a part of this unique history.
Collections & Exhibitions Manager Amanda Helfers
Hello all, I am very sad to announce that I will be leaving the Collections and Exhibitions Manager position at the St. Charles History Museum to become the Museum and Library Specialist at the Wood Library-Museum of Anesthesiology and am incredibly excited for this new adventure. My career began here in St. Charles in September 2016 as an intern with no prior experience and no clue what the museum field entailed. With the support of Alison, the Board, members, numerous volunteers, and the St. Charles community, I became more confident in navigating the field and quickly determined it was the career I was meant to be in.
In July of 2018, I was given the wonderful opportunity to step into the Collections and Exhibitions Manager role, which I have greatly enjoyed. Working in the collection, creating temporary exhibits, helping with programs, and connecting with the community have all taught me many valuable lessons that I will carry with me in this new journey. My time here has been filled with fabulous memories and I am extremely grateful to have started my career in such an incredible institution. Thank you all so much!
Meet our New Collections Manager, Ryan Hageman
Working to support and maintain the museum's collection, Ryan started at the St. Charles History Museum as a volunteer in 2017. Ryan has past experience in museums and cultural institutions, including the Newberry Library, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Design Museum of Chicago. Ryan has studied museum and non-profit management at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and holds a BFA from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.
Stay Tuned for an Announcement Soon to Meet our New Executive Director!
