THE CONNECTICUT HISTORICAL SOCIETY
POSITION DESCRIPTION

Title: Adult Programs Manager (part-time)
Reports to: Director of Education & Interpretation
Department: Education & Interpretation

General Description:
The Adult Programs Manager oversees the planning, development, implementation, and
evaluation of public programs designed to serve diverse adult audiences, primarily on-site at
the Connecticut Historical Society. These may include, but not be limited to: lectures, book
talks, workshops, gallery talks, demonstrations, concerts, panel discussions, performances,
films, conferences/symposia, and bus trips. S/he builds and fosters relationships with
community groups and organizations; local colleges and universities; area authors, historians,
and performers; and related affinity groups to offer collaborative programming and increase
awareness of CHS and its programs. In addition to members of the Education & Interpretation
Department, s/he works collaboratively with the Public Outreach Department and Executive
Director to insure that the needs and interests of CHS members and other constituents are
balanced and met.

Specific duties will include, but not be limited to the following:
Working with the Director of Education & Interpretation, Director of Public Outreach &
Institutional Advancement, Executive Director, and other CHS staff to determine the needs
and interests of the CHS’s adult audiences and develop strategies for best highlighting the
CHS collections and exhibits and promoting the institution through adult programs.
Working with CHS colleagues to identify scholars, newsmakers, collections experts, authors,
artists, craftspeople, or performers for possible programs.
Working with the Director of Education & Interpretation and other CHS staff to develop an
annual plan for adult programming—generally at least 6-12 months out—to be revisited
periodically and updated as needed.
Helping maintain an organization-wide calendar of adult and family programs, exhibit
openings, rentals, fundraisers, and other special events in order to prevent conflicts and
insure activities are appropriately distributed throughout the year.
Developing and managing program budgets.
Working with Public Outreach staff or others to raise funds or identify sponsors for adult
programming.
Making all arrangements for speakers, presenters, or performers for public programs.
Working with the Communications Manager and others to promote and market adult
programs through traditional media, brochures/rack cards, the chs.org online calendar,
online media and calendars, social media, e-blasts, and other appropriate tools.
Attending/“hosting” all adult programs or making arrangements for other staff to do so.
Insuring that senior management is represented at programs, when appropriate.
Carrying out evaluations of adult programs and analyzing the results to help the CHS
improve its programs and services.

July 2012

Writing reports or creating presentations for funders, staff, or the Board upon request.
Working collaboratively with the Director of Education & Interpretation and Education
and Interpretive Programs staff to develop adult tours of the CHS to meet the needs and
interests of diverse adult audiences.
Providing additional institution-wide support as necessary and carrying out other duties and
responsibilities as may arise.

Qualifications:
B.A. in museum education, history, American studies, or related field; M.A. preferred
Dedication to providing superior customer service
Flexibility and creativity
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to make and foster connections with people from
diverse backgrounds at community organizations and other institutions
Comfort with public speaking
Basic desktop publishing skills (working knowledge of Photoshop and Publisher and/or
InDesign)
Knowledge of current trends and best practices in the museum field
Reliability and personal organization to ensure that all commitments are met

Classification: Non-exempt, part-time

Hours: 20 hours/week year-round, some flexibility in schedule absolutely necessary; mostly
weekdays (regular schedule of 4-5 days/week); at least one Saturday/month and some evenings
(generally not more than 2-3 per month)

To apply, please email a letter of interest and resume to rebecca_furer@chs.org or mail to
Adult Programs Search, Connecticut Historical Society, One Elizabeth Street, Hartford, CT
06105.