Meet Donna Rhodes, New TMS Director

Trenton Museum Society Hires Director

June 23 – Trenton Museum Society President Richard Willinger announced today that the Society selected Donna Carcaci Rhodes to serve as Director.

“The Trenton Museum Society is fortunate to have found an outstanding museum professional to lead the Society during these challenging times” said Willinger. “Ms. Rhodes comes to us from the Pearl S. Buck National Historic Landmark Home in Perkasie, PA, where she was Historic Site Director-Curator.

“With her experience in curatorial management of art collections, research, archives, exhibit development and historic site conservation, she brings many important skills to the Trenton City Museum which displays both regional fine arts exhibits and exhibits that highlight fascinating aspects of local history.”  In addition, Rhodes has worked with education program design, museum tour design and volunteer docent training.

Rhodes is “excited and energized about the opportunities offered by the Trenton City Museum housed in the beautiful Ellarslie Mansion.”

According to Rhodes, “With the commitment of a dedicated Board of Trustees, the museum continues to offer ever changing and engaging events and exhibits in history, art, music and education for all ages.  I am looking forward to being a part of the strong continued expansion of this great organization with increased partnerships, tours and community involvement for the people of this great historic city and beyond.”

Ms. Rhodes education includes degrees in Art History and Business.  She lectures in and is published in artifact research, architectural sciences, historical studies, organizational volunteer support and the literature and life of Pearl S. Buck.  She resides in Holland, PA.

The Trenton Museum Society provides contemporary and historical art exhibits, Trenton history exhibits, student art classes, lectures and musical performances for those who are interested in Trenton’s history and the arts in Mercer and Bucks Counties and central New Jersey.

The Museum Society maintains in trust for the citizens of Trenton a collection of thousands of artifacts and documents reflecting the industrial, political, educational and commercial history of Trenton.

“There always seems to be so much going on at the museum,” Rhodes says.  “Two exhibits are opening this weekend: both on different aspects of Trenton history, Sartori to Sacred Heart, on the second floor, and Trenton Then and Now: Contemporary Views on the first floor. On July 11, there’s a fundraiser planned that sounds like a lot of fun – the Trenton Then and Now Cabaret with a local singer whom I hear is very good and quite the personality.  In August there’s the Art and Theater Summer Camp for two weeks, and Ellarslie is participating with the African American Cultural Festival by providing roots-themed lectures, discussions and workshops.  I look forward to meeting members, artists and patrons at these and other events.”