Holland Museum Announces Executive Director Ricki Levine's Retirement and Launches Search for Successor

Holland, MI (January 30, 2024) – The Holland Museum is celebrating the impactful leadership of Executive Director Ricki Levine, who announced her retirement today, effective June 30, 2024. During her tenure, Levine has spearheaded the museum's transformation into an inclusive community hub, where every voice and story finds its place.

A Legacy of Inclusion and Growth

Levine's leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Holland Museum's identity. Under her guidance, the museum:

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Earned reaccreditation from the prestigious Alliance of American Museums, a testament to its commitment to excellence.

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Secured the Peninsulas Prize for DEAI and the Social Justice Award for Education, recognizing its dedication to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.

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Unveiled the SparkLab! Smithsonian Exhibit, fostering curiosity and engagement in young minds.

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Expanded its programming and exhibits to encompass the rich tapestry of the local community.

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Developed a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan, paving the way for future success.

"Leading the Holland Museum during this transformative journey has been an immense privilege," said Levine. "I am deeply grateful to the staff, board, and community for their unwavering support in making our vision of inclusivity a reality. Together, we have accomplished so much, but the groundwork is laid for an even brighter future."

Board Applauds Levine's Achievements

The Museum's Board of Trustees expressed their heartfelt appreciation for Levine's dedication. "The entire board extends its congratulations to Ricki on her retirement," said Board Chair Chanda Miller. "She has not only steered the museum through a period of significant change but also laid the foundation for a sustainable and impactful future. We are incredibly grateful for her contributions and wish her all the best in her retirement."

Search for New Leadership Begins

In anticipation of Levine's departure, the Museum has formed a search committee and partnered with interSector Partners, L3C, a local, socially purposed consulting firm specializing in non-

profit leadership searches. The official search for the museum’s next Executive Director has begun.

"We are confident that Ricki's meticulous planning and the collaborative spirit she has fostered will ensure a smooth transition," said Chanda Miller, Search Committee Chair. "We are excited to find the next leader who will build upon Ricki's legacy and propel the Holland Museum to even greater heights."

The Holland Museum's future is bright, thanks to the transformative leadership of Ricki Levine. As the search for her successor commences, the community is poised to witness a new chapter in the museum's story, one that promises to continue its commitment to inclusivity, engagement, and excellence.

For more information, visit hollandmuseum.org or call 616.796.3329

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About the Holland Museum

Founded in 1937, the Holland Museum promotes learning that transcends information to focus on interaction—with history, culture, civil responsibility, and one another. The museum tells the stories of Holland, and the region, not to dictate how children and citizens engage the past, but to encourage them to change and build a better future. Programming and exhibits seek to connect people with why the history of Holland matters to them. Patrons and guests are encouraged to feel compelled to own and share those stories for themselves.