The New Hampshire Boat Museum (NHBM) has appointed Devon Kurtz as its new Executive Director, beginning April 1, 2025. Kurtz brings more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, museum administration, and community engagement.
“Throughout his career, Kurtz has demonstrated a passion for creating audience-centered programming, fostering partnerships, and advancing institutional sustainability,” said Jaime Laurent, Board Co-Chair. “We feel he is an exceptional choice to lead the museum into its next chapter of growth and innovation.” Kurtz joins NHBM after serving as Executive Director of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor in Northbridge, MA, where he spearheaded transformative projects. Some of these projects included the development of the Worcester Heritage Center and innovative interpretive programs that engaged diverse audiences across 25 communities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Before his tenure in the Blackstone Valley, Kurtz held leadership positions at several prominent cultural institutions, including the Higgins Armory Museum in Worcester, MA, where he oversaw education and public programming, and the Concord Museum in Concord, MA, where he directed education and interpretation initiatives. His career also includes experience at Old Sturbridge Village, where he designed and implemented interpretive programs for more than 300,000 annual visitors.
As Executive Director, Kurtz will lead NHBM’s efforts to complete its $4 million Capital Campaign and oversee the buildout and phased opening of its new 24,000-square-foot facility, which opened in 2024. “Devon’s proven track record in museum leadership and his ability to build meaningful connections with stakeholders make him an ideal fit for the New Hampshire Boat Museum,” added Laurent. “We are excited for the fresh perspectives he brings to our community and the institution.”
Kurtz is equally enthused, as he said he is “honored” to join NHBM “at such a pivotal moment in its history.” “The museum’s mission to preserve and celebrate the state’s boating heritage is inspiring,” he stated. “I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, board, and community to ensure its continued success and sustainability.” Kurtz’s hire culminated from a nationwide search that began earlier this year conducted by Dan Yaeger, Senior Search Consultant for Museum Search & Reference, an executive placement firm specializing in the North American Museum field. NHBM’s Search Committee was chaired by Dr. Allison Hall Hart and Jaime Laurent and included Board members Stephanie Inglis, Kerry Lynch, Mary Simpson, and Don Smith.
About NHBM
Founded in 1992 by antique and classic boating enthusiasts, NHBM offers dynamic exhibits and engaging events and programs tailored to the diverse boating lifestyles and values of people of all ages. NHBM exhibits, events and programming covers everything from boat charters, boat trips and race boats to canoes, wooden boats, outboard motors, sculling, sailing sunfish, and Lyman and Johnson motors. Some of our hands-on programs take place on Lake Winnipesaukee. NHBM is sponsored in part by Belletetes, Eastern Propane & Oil, Epoxy Floor New England, Goodhue Boat Company, Kingswood Press and Design Studio, KW Coastal, Lake and Mountains, North Water Marine, and Taylor Community.