Penobscot Marine Museum Names New Executive Director

Elizabeth Lodge to Lead Maine's Oldest Marine Museum

Elizabeth Lodge, Penobscot Marine Museum's new Executive Director

March 23, 2011 – Marie Underwood, President of the Board of Trustees of Penobscot Marine Museum announced today the appointment of Elizabeth Lodge as Executive Director, following an extensive national search. Lodge will join the museum on March 28. She previously served as Director of Museum Programs at Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, Massachusetts, for 17 years.

"Liz has extensive experience in management, fundraising, education, exhibitions and programs," said Underwood. "Her experience in maritime programs at Plimoth Plantation will be an asset to Penobscot Marine Museum. The board and staff look forward to working with her as she leads the museum to even greater community outreach and service."

Lodge managed 10 departments and about 100 staff and volunteers at Plimoth Plantation. Under her direction, collaborations were established with partners such as The History Channel and National Geographic that expanded the museum's reach from a local to a national audience.

Lodge holds a Bachelor's Degree in History from the College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, Mass., and a graduate Certificate in Museum Studies from Tufts University. Prior to becoming Director of Museum Programs at Plimoth, she held the position of Associate Curator for five years and Interpreter & Museum Teacher for a year. She serves on the Board of Trustees of the Waldorf School of Cape Cod. She and her family will relocate to the Searsport area.

"I am honored to have been selected to lead Penobscot Marine Museum," Lodge said. "I am eager to begin working with the board, staff, and volunteers to continue expanding the museum's influence throughout the Penobscot Bay region and Down East. The museum's incredible collections, wide-ranging exhibitions, and innovative education programs are testimony to the achievements of the Trustees and staff, and to the generosity of the museum's supporters.

Lodge succeeds Finance Director, Matthew Timney, who has served as Interim Executive Director since September. Underwood said, "The Board wishes to express its appreciation for all that Matt and the staff are doing to keep the museum working smoothly during the transition."