Rouleen Gartner

The Northwoods Children’s Museum Board of Directors has announced the resignation of executive director Rouleen Gartner effective May 1. Gartner has accepted a position with LaunchPAD Children’s Museum in Sioux City, Iowa.

“I have really enjoyed and appreciated my time with the Northwoods Children’s Museum and all the opportunities it has brought me,” Gartner said. “I have a love for the organization that will never fade.”

In her 18-year career at NCM, Gartner spent the last nine years as executive director. During her tenure the museum has seen an increase in membership and general admissions, unveiled six new exhibits and hosted three of the most successful annual fundraisers in the museum’s history. Other developments under Gartner’s leadership include increased board participation, increased number of school field trips, facility upgrades and expanded operating hours.

The Northwoods Children’s Museum is working on the transition process. Last fall the board created an assistant director position and hired Aubrey Dalbec, who holds a post-graduate degree and has strong connections to the northwoods. Dalbec will serve as interim director.