From: "Seymour, Janet I - WHS" <Janet.Seymour@WisconsinHistory.org> Subject: La Crosse County Historical Society Executive Director search announcement Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:02:19 +0000 Message-ID: <SJ0PR09MB1136524B9B3737D4567C128EA8762A@SJ0PR09MB11365.namprd09.prod.outlook.com>
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT
The La Crosse County Historical Society (LCHS), is seeking a dynamic and mi
ssion-driven Executive Director to lead the next chapter of our growth. For
more than 125 years, LCHS has preserved, interpreted and shared the storie
s that shape La Crosse County. Today, we stand at an exciting point in time
and our next Executive Director will play a pivotal role in advancing this
vision.
Our Ask
Through your networks and connections, please encourage anyone who may have
an interest to submit a resume and cover letter to Barb Janssen, President
of the La Crosse County Historical Society Board of Directors.
About the Organization
Founded in 1898, LCHS preserves and shares the stories of La Crosse County
through exhibits, educational programs, publications and stewardship of our
growing collections. With an exceptional staff, a supportive and experienc
ed board and strong community partnerships, LCHS is poised for strategic ex
pansion in programming, outreach and organizational capacity.
Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and public face of LCH
S, responsible for strategic leadership, operational management, fundraisin
g/development and community engagement. The ideal candidate brings a blend
of nonprofit management experience, collaborative leadership and a passion
for local history. This is a hands-on leadership role ideal for someone who
thrives in a collaborative environment and believes in the power of local
history to build belonging, understanding and civic pride. A job descriptio
n is included.
Compensation
Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume and three professional references to L
a Crosse County Historical Society, 145 West Ave S, La Crosse, WI 54601, At
tn: Barb Janssen, President. Applications may also be sent to tn: Barb Janssen, President. Applications may also be sent to president@lch
shistory.org
Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
Please reach out with any questions. Thank you for sharing this opportunity
!
Barb Janssen
president@lchshistory.org
(608) 317-4311
Title: Executive Director Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Supervisor: Executive Committee Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary
The La Crosse County Historical Society (LCHS) seeks a dynamic and strategi
c Executive Director to lead the organization during an exciting period of
growth and development. The Executive Director will provide overall leaders
hip for LCHS operations, including personnel management, fundraising, donor
engagement, community partnerships, budget & finance, maintenance of physi
cal plants, marketing and public relations.
This is a full-time, salaried position reporting to the Board of Directors.
The ideal candidate is a skilled non-profit leader with a strong backgroun
d in organizational management, development, community engagement and relat
ionship building.
Key Responsibilities
The essential functions of this position are defined below. This descriptio
n is not intended to cover every single requirement of the job. Responsibil
ities may evolve or expand as needed. % OF TIME
JOB DUTIES
55%
Fund Development Strategy & Implementation
* Develop, implement and evaluate a comprehensive fundraisi
ng strategy to support operations, programming and other needs as identifie
d.
* Lead and coordinate all fundraising activities, including
grant writing & compliance, donor cultivation, annual appeals, membership
drives, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, planned giving and fundraising
events.
* Identify, cultivate, solicit and steward donors and funde
rs at all levels - with an emphasis on expanding the LCHS's reach to new au
diences and supporters.
* Direct and collaborate with the Board to maximize fundrai
sing opportunities and participation.
* Collaborate with staff to ensure all programming and init
iatives are designed to attract philanthropic and community support.
45%
Leadership & Administration
* Provide strategic leadership and vision in partnership wi
th the Board of Directors.
* Supervise and support staff and volunteers.
Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
* * Passion for local history and the mission of LCHS.
* * Demonstrated success in nonprofit fundraising through a
nnual giving, major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships and events.
* * Demonstrated ability to build authentic relationships a
nd inspire giving.
* * Outstanding verbal, written and interpersonal communica
tion skills.
* * Highly organized and results-oriented; able to balance
strategic planning with hands-on execution.
* * Experience working with a Board of Directors and nonpro
fit financial management and budgeting.
* * Familiarity with historical preservation, museum or cul
tural organization management.
* * Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups and
build community partnerships.
Preferred Professional Qualifications
* * Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in nonprofi
t or governmental management, history or related field experience preferred
.
* * 3-5 years of experience in a nonprofit, educational or
cultural organization preferred.
* * Experience managing staff and volunteers.
Compensation
Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Previous salary range $70-
80,000/year