BALTIMORE – The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum has named Kris Hoellen as its new executive director. A senior vice president at the National Aquarium, she will assume her new position in September 2018.

“To have the opportunity to help transform the museum into a showcase of history and innovation, and positively contribute to the economic development of the surrounding community is exceedingly gratifying, and I couldn’t be more honored with the opportunity,” Hoellen says.

Beyond her experience at the National Aquarium, Hoellen has a background in transportation having worked at the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences as well as at the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Additionally, she has devoted much of her career to working with communities throughout the U.S. on becoming economically and environmentally healthy while a senior executive at The Conservation Fund.

“Kris brings the ideal background we were seeking as we prepare for growth and a new era at the B&O Museum”, says Francis Smyth, chairman of the B&O Museum board of directors. “She has expertise in destination management, a background in transportation and community economic development, and most importantly, an entrepreneurial mindset to lead our efforts to transform west Baltimore and to guide us forward towards the 200th anniversary of American Railroading.”

Hoellen replaces Courtney Wilson, executive director of the museum for the past 20 years, who announced his departure earlier this year. “We are so fortunate to find such a capable leader in Kris to assume the mantle from Courtney,” Smyth adds. “With time for transition between the two, the museum is postured to launch next steps towards our long-term growth plans which begin with the construction of the Baltimore City Mounted Police Unit stables this summer.”

Hoellen was identified as a candidate for the position by the executive search firm Durakis Executive Search.