Tuesday, January 29, 2013

New programs director joins the North Berrien Historical Museum



The North Berrien Historical Museum in Coloma has hired a new full time employee to direct and develop programs and special events.  The position of Director of Programs was recently filled by Watervliet native Pauline Wendzel.  Her responsibilities will include creating and delivering programs for schools, families, and the general public, as well as coordinating volunteers and museum outreach.  The museum’s Executive Director Tracy Gierada says, “The North Berrien Historical Society is pleased to welcome Pauline Wendzel to our staff.  Her background and personality are a great fit for this job, and she is passionate about the local history mission that drives all our work.”

Pauline Wendzel is a lifelong resident of the area with roots in Bainbridge Township going back four generations.  She was raised in the farmhouse built by her great grandfather Robert Wendzel on North Branch Road.  Pauline grew up on a working fruit and vegetable farm and retains a keen interest in the current and historical value of agriculture in the development of the region. Pauline is a graduate of Watervliet Public Schools and Michigan State University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and Food Industry Management in 2012.  She studied abroad in Greece and Turkey, participated in service trips to Mexico and Nicaragua, and also served as Michigan Apple Queen in 2007.  She has several years of experience working with children and running child development programs. 

The North Berrien Historical Society, founded in 1966, opened the museum in 1992.  It is supported by an operating millage in the four townships and two cities in northern Berrien County.  The museum is located at 300 Coloma Avenue, on Red Arrow Highway across from Coloma High School.  The mission of the historical society and museum is to “preserve and distribute information regarding the history of North Berrien County. We wish to promote, encourage learning, and disseminate knowledge of the area’s cultural and architectural legacy.” 

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