The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Emily Kurash Casey as the new Executive Director of the Winona County Historical Society.

“We are thrilled to welcome Emily to WCHS,” said Board President Anne Conway. “She brings an exceptional combination of nonprofit leadership, community-building experience, and a genuine passion for history and place. The Board was impressed by her collaborative approach, thoughtful vision, and enthusiasm for the Society’s future. We are confident she will carry the momentum of the new River Gallery exhibit into an exciting new chapter—one that invites people of all ages to discover the stories that shaped Winona County, connect more deeply with their community, and become part of its continuing story.”

As Executive Director, Emily will build upon the strong foundation established by the Society’s previous leadership, continuing the momentum of recent years while helping guide the organization into its next chapter.

Emily brings a passion for supporting arts, history, and community development organizations throughout the rural Upper Midwest. Her nonprofit leadership experience and background in history and arts organizations make her well prepared to continue the Society’s tradition of excellence while exploring new opportunities to connect people with the rich history of Winona County.

Previously, Emily worked with Minnesota Main Streets by Rethos, Winona Main Street, and the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce. An Advanced Certified Nonprofit Professional through the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, she has worked extensively with rural nonprofits as a board member and facilitator, leading programs focused on revitalizing historic spaces, engaging community members and volunteers, and fostering collaboration among municipalities, businesses, artists, and community organizations.

Her experience also includes leadership roles with Great River Shakespeare Festival, Sandbar Storytelling Festival, Minnesota Marine Art Museum, and Mid West Music Fest, as well as work as a teaching artist with high school students in Minnesota and Iowa. She currently serves on both the Winona Heritage Preservation Commission and the Winona Planning Commission.

Emily said, “It is a joy and honor to be named the next director at Winona County Historical Society. The History Center was one of the first places I visited when I moved to Winona, and I’ve been a consistent fan of the incredible work and partnerships the staff and board have built. The recent and ongoing updates to the museum gallery make this an exciting time to be joining the small but mighty team. I’m looking forward to connecting in a new way with the WCHS members, partners, and volunteers I know, meeting those I don’t know yet, and tending to the deep roots of this organization as it grows into the future.”