Museum names Connor first Executive Director

The Board of Directors of the Children’s Museum of St. Johns, Inc. announced to Historic City News that Susan Connor has assumed chief executive duties of the non-profit volunteer organization; becoming its first executive director and the museum’s first paid employee.

“Susan has been committed to making the Museum a resource for children and families since joining us in 2007 to lead our fundraising efforts,” said Ben Platt, president of the Board of Directors. “We’re extremely pleased that her talent and enthusiasm will guide us as we bring the Museum to life.”

Connor has been actively engaged as a volunteer with the children’s museum effort for more than four years. She served as President of the Board of Directors in 2009-2010 and has served as the Museum’s Fundraising Committee Chair since its founding. In 2009, Connor worked with board members and others to conduct a community assessment to hear from educators, parents, business and public leaders from across St. Johns County about what they saw as the greatest needs for children in our area.

“It takes a great many volunteers, professionals and donors to make this all come together,” said Connor. “We have a long way to go, but this is an exciting time for us.” Developing and executing a successful capital campaign is one of her top priorities, she added.

The mother of two elementary-age children, Connor brings 13 years of experience as a professional fundraiser for universities, including the University of Southern California, the University of Richmond, and Stetson University. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the College of William and Mary and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California.