The new director at Pella Historical Society is starting this week.
Valerie Van Kooten was selected earlier the summer to lead the organization moving forward. President of Pella Historical Society Lori Ellingson says the board is excited to have Van Kooten direct programs moving forward.
Van Kooten tells KNIA/KRLS News she’s humbled by the opportunity to showcase Pella’s rich history.
“I am so honored because I’ve grown up with the Pella Historical Society and Museums, they’ve always been a part of my life,” she says. “I ended up as a volunteer and years ago, my mom worked as a secretary there when I was in high school, and I’ve been involved in activities there with my kids, so it sort of feels like coming home.”