LENOX, Mass. — The Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum has named Melanie Seiden as its first executive director, a move the organization calls a significant milestone and a reflection of its growth and long-term vision.
Seiden becomes the museum’s first paid staff member. Her most recent position was as associate director for membership at the New York State Council of School Superintendents, where she led membership strategy, relationship building, and outreach to education leaders. The museum says that work strengthened her experience in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and organizational growth, which will be essential as the BSRM expands its programs and partnerships.
Her appointment follows an assessment by a nonprofit consulting firm that led to establishing the executive director job, helping to position the organization for future development.
“This is a pivotal moment for Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum,” Museum President Tom Delasco said in a press release. “Our strategic assessment made clear that Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum needed to evolve to remain viable. We faced a choice: reinvent ourselves for the future or develop an exit strategy to close. Melanie’s energy, collaborative approach, and vision make her the ideal leader to guide us into this next chapter.”
The museum, established in 1984, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the railroad history of western Massachusetts. Its Hoosac Valley Train Ride brings more than 10,000 visitors to northern Berkshire County each year. More information is available at its website.
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Congratulations! Best of good luck to her!