FAIRFIELD, CT– The Fairfield Museum and History Center, Fairfield’s center for cultural arts and education, has elected a new president, Sharon Lauer, and vice president, John Herzog, along with five local residents to its Board of Directors -- Sandy Altieri, Lisa Callahan, Jill Littig, Bill Mallin and Finley Shaw.
“We are so fortunate to have this group of extremely talented, dedicated members of the community join us. We look forward to working together to educate and enhance our regional community and embrace new opportunities that lie ahead,” says Michael Jehle, executive director of the Fairfield Museum.
Sharon Lauer, who has held educational leadership positions for more than two decades, currently serves as the head of Unquowa School, a pre-k through eighth grade independent school in Fairfield. Other affiliations include the International Poetry Forum, On the Wing Children’s Theatre, Pittsburgh Filmmakers, Connecticut Association of Independent Schools and Creative Connections.
“My vision for the Fairfield Museum is for it to serve as a model of authentic learning and a vibrant 21st century institution,” said Lauer.
John Herzog, former CEO of Herzog Heine Geduld Inc., a major NYSE trading firm, and R. M. Smythe & Co., a numismatic action firm, was named vice president after serving on the Museum board for many years. He plans to bring to the job effective management, revenue enhancement, cost control and innovation in all areas. Herzog noted, “The Fairfield Museum can continue to grow as a major cultural and educational institution.”
Other additions to the 2015-2016 Board include: Sandy Altieri who grew up in Fairfield and is descended from three of the town’s founding families. Altieri received her BA from George Washington University and worked for many years as a legal recruitment director for large law firms in NYC. She is an active member of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church and a member of many boards. The Altieri family lives in a 250-year-old house in Fairfield, built in 1765 by Ebenezer Hill, a Captain in the Continental Army who defended Fairfield during the British invasion.
Lisa Callahan, a life-long resident of Fairfield, and her husband raised their four sons in an historical house, which was spared by the British during the burning of Fairfield. She is the member of many boards including Burr Gardens Advisory Committee, Bridgeport Ladies Charitable Society and New Beginnings Family Academy. “My main interests regarding the Museum are in the areas of education and marketing,” commented Callahan. “I would like to see the Museum as a vibrant cultural hub for our town and State with involvement from many different constituencies.”
Bill Mallin, a long-time resident of Fairfield, brings a strong business background to the board as a vice president at Perdue Pharma.
Finley Shaw is active in many local organizations and boards. She has always had an interest in the past, earning her Bachelor’s Degree in History from Colgate University.
PHOTO: Sharon Lauer