HYANNIS – The long time President and CEO of the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum will be stepping down from the position at the end of the year.
John Allen, who turned 75 in February, discussed his retirement with foundation directors last fall and has shared his plans with staff, major donors and friends of the museum.
Over a nearly seven-year period, Allen spearheaded a complete upgrade of exhibits and exhibit areas throughout the museum.
He also guided the expansion of cultural programming across the Cape and Islands, including the Summer Speaker Series.
“I will miss being there and listening to people of all ages from all different backgrounds come together and want to engage on something that’s important to them or something that came to their mind,” said Allen.
In recent years, Allen has launched efforts to modernize the building, such as renovating space on the second floor to create the Scudder Family Community Room, which is slated for completion next year.
The museum is the fourth major attraction on the Cape, with an average of 70,000 annual visitors from the U.S. and around the world.
In addition to enhancing exhibits, Allen has led the growth of the museum’s civic education programs and youth activities.
Last year, 2,400 Cape and Islands youth participated in museum-related educational activities designed to teach the value of civic engagement.
“We really have become part of the community infrastructure as an important institution that has relevant content, inspires people and educates people whatever their age,” said Allen.
A succession committee was established by the board to search for the museum’s next president.
A formal search has been launched this month and it is anticipated that the committee will complete their work by this fall.
By JUSTIN SAUNDERS, CapeCod.com Newscenter
About CapeCod.com NewsCenter
