Late in 2011, the board of commissioners of Skamania County elected to no longer fund the position of executive director at the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center in Stevenon. Long-time Executive Director Sharon Tiffany retired but continued to serve until health problems forced her to leave last summer. In September, board chairman Jim Price agreed to fill in on a temporary volunteer basis.
Recently, the board of directors approved a reorganization plan presented by Price. The plan divides the director’s responsibilities into four major parts to be done by volunteers, overseen by a part-time volunteer executive director.
The four second-tier jobs are: Public relations, Advertising, Fundraising and Administration, all of which have already been filled. To fill the top job, Price has initiated a search plan to advertise, interview and select the most qualified applicant.
“This new executive director position can be done in two to three days a week,” Price explained. “This is a prestigious organization. It has a stellar reputation as one of the top ‘must-see’ places in one of the most desirable tourist destinations in the country. This job is one just about anyone would be proud to put on their resume.”
Price envisions the position going to a retired executive with time on his or her hands and a love of history and the gorge. He said the board is looking for a commitment of at least three years. “This is a world-class museum and it deserves first-class care. We intend to be very selective in our decision, but we are confident the right person will show up.”
Anyone interested in applying should send a resume to the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum, PO Box 396, Stevenson, WA 98648. They may also email a resume to director@columbiagorge.org.
