EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SEARCH
The Mather Homestead Foundation seeks a new Executive Director to lead the dynamic organization into its next chapter.
Message from the Board of Directors
It is with tremendous appreciation - and yes some sadness - that we share this message from Executive Director Heather Raker:
With heartfelt gratitude, I share that I will be stepping down as Executive Director of the Mather Homestead Foundation this fall.
It has been a true privilege to work alongside the Foundation’s dedicated Board to help build a vibrant museum and dynamic educational programs that engage visitors of all ages. This role has been deeply enriching both personally and professionally, and I’m profoundly grateful to all who have supported the Foundation and inspired me along the way.
I’ve made this difficult decision to step down as Executive Director in order to spend more time with my family, but I remain passionately committed to the Mather Homestead’s mission and look forward to supporting its continued success in every way I can.
Thank you to everyone who has championed our efforts to bring history to life for our community and beyond!
Heather has served the Mather Homestead Foundation since 2017, first as a founding Board member, and then as Executive Director in 2020. Her leadership has been marked by her relentless energy, her awesome creativity, and her passion for sharing the Mather story with one and all. Mather is a young organization, and Heather’s impact has helped to put us on the map by creating compelling programming that brought so many to our beautiful campus. Heather produced and executed events that were well loved by visitors of all ages, with especially fun educational content for our young visitors. We will miss her spirit and enthusiasm which was contagious, but we will greatly value her continuing support of the Mather Homestead.
Please join us in extending our heartfelt gratitude to Heather for her wonderful contributions to the Mather Homestead. We wish her nothing but continued success and much happiness. This fall we will thank Heather with an appropriate celebration at the Homestead – stay tuned for details!
As we prepare to find our next Executive Director, we ask all of you to spread the word to those in your network who may be interested in this unique role. We seek a leader who brings a deep passion for history and education as well as strong executive skills. Please read the full position description here.
Sincerely,
The Mather Board of Directors
Leadership
Anna Denoyer (2017-2018)
Founding Director Anna Denoyer established the foundation and opened the newly created museum to visitors for tours of the historic home. A move to Ohio prompted a quick departure!
Lauren Swenson (2018-2020)
Lauren Swenson grew the museum, most notably leading the building of the new Elizabeth W. Chilton Education Center and establishing new trademark events such as the Fall Harvest Festival.
Heather Raker (2020-2025)
With the addition of the new Education Center, founding board member Heather Raker embraced the role of Executive Director and transitioned the museum from a quiet place of history to a vibrant place of learning and engagement.