By Annie Valk, OHA President
The tragic loss of our executive director and good friend Cliff Kuhn in 2015 was a blow to the OHA family. As the organization’s first executive director, Cliff worked tirelessly with leadership and members to ensure the success of OHA into the future.
As we move forward with important initiatives, programs and events, I am thrilled to announce that starting May 9, 2016, Kristine Navarro-McElhaney at Arizona State University began serving as our new interim executive director, to ensure that OHA’s day-to-day operations continue successfully and effectively. Kristine has served on the OHA Council since 2014 and has provided invaluable support on the Finance Committee. I know that she will help guide the association with competence, experience, thoughtfulness, and dedication.
The Council has worked closely with Arizona State University, especially Matt Garcia and his team at ASU’s School of History, Philosophy and Religious Studies, to craft a partnership that reflects our goals as the principal membership organization for people committed to the value of oral history.
We deeply appreciate the creativity and generosity that have made Kristine’s appointment possible. Reflecting a true collaborative effort, OHA’s executive office will remain at Georgia State University and many thanks to Michelle Brattain, chair of the History Department at GSU, and Program Associate Gayle Knight for their continued support of the organization.
Please send thoughts, ideas or questions to Kristine. As many of you know, she is not new to OHA and is looking forward to working closely with everyone to further our mission. She can be reached via email knavarr5@asu.edu.
Finally, I want to thank Kristine, Gayle, the Council and other OHA members who have offered assistance during the past months. Your support has meant the world to me personally and you have helped steer OHA through a challenging transition.
