From collecting postcards of New England historic sites during childhood family travels to serving on the board of directors of the world's largest museum organization, Carl R. Nold has a lifelong commitment to historic sites and museums. Now he brings his enthusiasm and experience to SPNEA as its president, becoming the sixth person to lead the organization since its founding in 1910.

Since his arrival in May, Carl has engaged in a whirlwind of activities, visiting SPNEA properties, leading planning sessions with staff, and meeting with SPNEA friends in many fields. His energy and enthusiasm about SPNEA affect all who meet him, and he is already a visible advocate for preserving New England material culture and bringing the past to life for visitors.

A graduate of St. John's University and the Cooperstown Graduate Program in History Museum Studies, Carl's interest in heritage preservation and interpretation grew out of studies in history and secondary education. He sees familiar buildings and artifacts as inviting gateways to understanding the past.

Carl brings twenty-five years of museum experience to his new position, most recently serving for eleven years as director of Mackinac State Historic Parks in Michigan, where he supervised programs, oversaw more than a hundred buildings and 2,400 acres of park land, and was responsible for the restoration or renovation of virtually every facility in the system. His work involved historic preservation and land protection, support of research and publications, development of statewide education programs, and creating memorable experiences for museum visitors. One of his goals for SPNEA is to enhance its visibility as a key contributor to New England education, tourism, economic health, and quality of life.

Widely respected in the museum profession, Carl began a three-year term as a board member for the American Association of Museums in May. He has served as an advisor to the American Association for State and Local History and received an award from the Michigan Museums Association for work in cultural tourism development. Previously, he was director of The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg; director/curator of Gadsby's Tavern Museum in Alexandria, Virginia; and on the staff at the New York State Historical Association and Farmers' Museum in Cooperstown.