It’s an appointment of historical proportions.
The Sooke Region Historical Society has announced that Michelle Richard is taking over as executive director for the Sooke Region Museum and Visitor Centre.
“Michelle brings an impressive background in non-profit and cultural administration, history and heritage and has worked within Canada and internationally, including 20 years in community arts and cultural resource management,” said Sooke Region Historical Society president Doni Eve. “She has extensive experience in leadership, communications, strategic planning, community engagement, budgeting and fundraising, and working with staff and volunteers.
Richard holds an honours bachelor’s degree in history and art history and a diploma in cultural resource management, and has been an active volunteer and participant in community events since moving to Sooke with her family in 2021.
“As someone who is deeply curious about history, heritage, and culture, I’m eager to be immersed in the stories of the place where I live,” Richard said. “I’m thrilled to be joining the Sooke Region Museum and Visitor Centre at an exciting time as we embark on a community engagement process to envision the museum’s future and prepare 50th anniversary celebrations.”
Richard replaces Lee Boyko, who is retiring as executive director following service in the 1990s and the past 12 years.
The Sooke Region Historical Society also welcomes Sheila Needs and Nadine Smith, who were elected to the board at the annual general meeting on March 9.
They join president Eve, vice-president Laurie Szadkowski, treasurer Georgia Medwedrich and secretary Sheila Dobie. As well as directors Rob Hill, Trevor Price, Neil Poirier, Laurie Wallace, Rose Dumont from the T’Sou-ke Nation, past-president Ray Vowles and District of Sooke liaison Dana Lajeunesse.
Retiring directors Tony Bastone and Linda Gabriel were honoured at the AGM for their contributions.
“We are very grateful to Lee, Tony and Linda for their many years of dedicated service to the museum and society,” Eve said. “I am thrilled to be working with Michelle and our new board as we gear up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Sooke Region Museum in 2027. Stay tuned for exciting things to come.”
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