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Garst Museum names
new director
By Barbara Martin
The Board of Directors of the Darke County Historical Association,
Garst Museum, is pleased to announce the hiring of Clay Johnson, Ph.D.
as its next executive director. He replaces retiring director, Penny
Perry.
Uniquely qualified for the position of executive director, Clay holds a
Ph.D. in Public History with History and Public Administration from
Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He graduated from
Wright State University with a Master of Arts in Public History
Administration with Archives and Records management and a Bachelor of
Arts in History. His doctorate level training includes museum and
exhibit management, nonprofit administration, human resources
management, artifact conservation, and records and archives management.
In addition to these academic qualifications, Dr. Johnson brings
managerial, budgeting, and technology experience to his position.
Clay lives in the country in a Federal style farmhouse he has
renovated. He enjoys historical homes and barns, antiques, gardening,
biking and hiking, working on vintage vehicles and garden tractors, and
is committed to living in the rural community that surrounds him. He is
looking forward to putting all his training, education, and acquired
skills in play as he leads the Garst Museum forward with new ideas,
technology, outreach, and expansion.
Dr. Johnson commented, “With all that it has to offer, I feel that the
Garst Museum is an important and vital institution for the region. The
museum obtained its well-deserved, quality reputation through years of
hard work and dedication by the Board of Directors, donors, Penny Perry
and her staff, numerous volunteers, and the surrounding community. I am
impressed with the care and concern expressed for the Garst Museum by
those involved. As executive director, I look forward to strengthening
the region’s relationship to the museum by developing outreach programs
and exhibits that focus on the community’s interests.”
“The Garst Museum is a perfect fit for me as its focus includes so many
of my longtime historical interests. Early in my life, I developed a
love for history and an appreciation for early craftsmanship in
furniture, art, and homes. This passion has driven both my personal and
professional life. Surrounded by its history and significant artifact
collection, working at the Garst Museum is an exciting opportunity for
me. I look forward to engaging the community as a partner in the growth
and development of the museum.”
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