History Center board appoints Benjamin Neely new president/CEO

Benjamin Neely assumes his new responsibilities July 14. He was most recently the chief executive officer of the Berks County History Center in Reading.

The York County History Center Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Benjamin Neely as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. The board made its decision during its June 18 meeting, following the recommendation of the search committee that has been evaluating candidates since March.

“We are thrilled to welcome Benjamin Neely to lead the York County History Center into its next chapter,” said Dennis Baughman, chairman of the History Center board. “His extensive experience in museum leadership and his proven track record of engaging communities with their local history make him the ideal candidate to advance our mission of preserving and sharing York County’s rich heritage.”

Neely brings significant experience in museum management and historical programming to his new role. He most recently served for six years as chief executive officer of the Berks County History Center in Reading. Before that, he was with the Adams County Historical Society in Gettysburg for 14 years, the last seven as chief executive officer. His background in central Pennsylvania’s cultural institutions provides him with valuable insight into the unique challenges and opportunities facing regional history centers.

Throughout his career, Neely has shown a commitment to making history accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. His experience spans various aspects of museum operations, including collections management, educational programming and community outreach. This comprehensive background positions him well to lead the History Center’s continued growth and evolution as a vital cultural resource for the region.

“I am honored to join the York County History Center and look forward to working with the dedicated staff, volunteers, and community members who make this organization so special,” Neely said. “York County has such a rich and fascinating history, and I’m excited about the opportunity to help share those stories in new and engaging ways while building on the strong foundation that already exists.”

The search process was thorough and comprehensive, Baughman said, with the search committee reviewing numerous applications from qualified candidates across the country. After conducting approximately half a dozen virtual interviews, the committee brought two finalists to York County for in-person interviews on June 16 and 17. During these final interviews, both candidates met with staff members, board members, donors, local government officials, and community supporters.

Neely succeeds Joan Mummert, who retired at the end of April. Terri Altland, vice president of Visitor Engagement, has been serving as interim president and CEO since May 1 and will continue to support the organization during the transition period.

The York County History Center will host a public reception to welcome Neely to the organization and the broader York County community. Details about this welcoming event will be announced at a later date.

Media contacts

YORK COUNTY HISTORY CENTER: Dan Fink, dfink@yorkhistorycenter.org, 717-848-1587 ext. 216.

About the York County History Center

The York County History Center, a nonprofit organization, inspires the exploration of the rich history, diverse people, and vibrant culture of York County, Pennsylvania and the United States. Through its extensive collections and historic sites, the History Center’s new museum vividly narrates the American story from pre-colonial times to present day. Housing more than 90,000 artifacts, the collection spans nearly 300 years of York County’s history, showcasing its development and spotlighting the many community contributions. The History Center’s Library & Archives is generally considered one of the best local history and genealogy libraries in the state and offers a wealth of resources to help you with your research. A key aspect of the History Center’s mission is to tell York County’s history more inclusively, to have the stories fully reflect the entire community. The new museum’s core exhibit uses state-of-the-art technology to provide an immersive and modern experience for visitors, who are encouraged to visit all five of our impressive museums to gain a full appreciation for all of York County’s history.