It is our pleasure to announce the appointment of Jessica Oliveri and Robert "Rob" Lipkin as our new Executive Director and Assistant Executive Director respectively. They have collectively been with HHNM for almost 20 years, and we are so excited to have them at the helm! They take up the mantle from Tom Bregman who served 5 years in the role before his retirement at the end of March, 2023.
Jessica has been with the Nature Museum for over 10 years, with most of her tenure spent as Director of Development. A graduate of Emerson College where she earned a BFA in Creative Writing, Jessica is a twice published author. She has two children of whom she is very proud, and enjoys gardening and paper crafts. When asked what drew her to HHNM and how she feels regarding her new position, Jessica proclaimed,
“I have been in love with the Nature Museum and its mission to ‘connect kids to nature through education and play’ for years. Backed by a talented staff and a committed Board of Trustees, I am thrilled to be taking over as Executive Director at such an exciting time in the organization’s evolution. “
Rob joined HHNM in 2015 as Director of Operations after 30 plus years in the Restaurant Industry after attending Cornell University. He lives in Highland Mills with his wife Illisa and has two daughters, Elana & Lindsay. Rob also has his own off-premise Catering & Private Chef business, Rob's Kitchen Caravan, and is very active in Monroe Temple of Liberal Judaism, having recently completed his term as Temple President. Rob believes that,
“The Nature Museum has such an important mission & message and I am excited to be part of the leadership team moving HHNM forward as we expand our Natural Footprint in the Hudson valley, bringing more opportunities to more children to connect with nature and become active stewards of our shared environment.”
As Executive Directors, they will take on double duty as they continue on in their original Director roles as well. Please join us in welcoming Jessica and Rob to their new positions!