By David J. Kent
Washington D.C.
Monday, March 8, 2021
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (ALPLM) in Springfield, Illinois has selected Christina Shutt as their new Executive Director. Shutt was unanimously approved by ALPLM's Board of Trustees on Friday, March 5, 2021.
ALPLM Board of Trustees Chairman, and former Illinois Congressman, Ray LaHood said "We are thrilled to have her guiding a great institution dedicated to an even greater man." LaHood praised the "tremendous expertise" and "new perspectives" that Shutt brings to the job. Shutt previously served as Executive Director of Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. She has master's degrees in history and library science. Shutt is the fifth executive director and first woman of color to serve at ALPLM. She is expected to begin her new role in June 2021.
Shutt is not the only new hire. ALPLF, the Foundation that supports ALPLM, recently hired Erin Mast as their President and CEO. Prior to January, Mast had for over a decade been President and Executive Director of President Lincoln's Cottage here in Washington, D.C.
Governor J.B. Pritzker also praised the hiring of Shutt. "A barrier-breaker in her own right, Christina comes to the ALPLM with formidable experience in lifting up historically marginalized voices and ensuring they are heard and understood in the greater American narrative - and in turn, the American present." Pritzker went on to note that "Abraham Lincoln's legacy is not only a critical piece of comprehending our nation's past; but also in understanding how to navigate our future."
More information about the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: http://www.alplm.org/