Karen Gaconnier (Schneider) of West Sayville was unanimously selected by the Board of Trustees to fill the position.

Mrs. Gaconnier has an extensive management background in the private media marketing field, and also holds an education degree from SUNY- Stonybrook. Before being hired by The Long Island Maritime Museum she served as Manager of East Coast Sales for B2BWorks, Manager of Sales and Marketing Services for CMP Media and editor of specialty service publications. Her roots in the community go deep. She is the great granddaughter of John Conlon, the first superintendent of Heckscher State Park.

According to Russell Moran, the chairman of the museum’s board of trustees: “Karen is the Perfect Storm of talent that this institution has long needed.”

The museum’s mission, as Mrs. Gaconnier sees it, is both simple and challenging: “Preserve the past; educate the present; and secure the future of maritime history on Long Island.”

Originally chartered by the New York State Department of Education, the Long Island Maritime Museum will shift course to emphasize one of its key goals. September will mark the beginning of educational programs that cater specifically to children within the community.

Mrs. Gaconnier is dedicated to instilling a sense of cultural identity in our children. "Our first initiative will be re-defining the field trip," says Gaconnier."

A child-centered approach to local education will complement and reinforce what kids are learning in their current grade levels. Classroom subjects that cover the environment, economy, ecology, navigation, map skills and US history will now enjoy the benefit of a hands-on workshop in their own backyard."

The Long Island Maritime Museum is in a unique position to be a strong part of the educational process because of its combination of historical, cultural and technical teaching opportunities.

In addition to the newly enhanced education department, the museum will increase its range of events, lectures and community programs. Those who love historic wooden vessels will not be disappointed. Coast Guard certification for Priscilla, the beautifully restored oyster dredge, is expected within the next few months. In 2008 work will begin on another great vessel from the past, Modesty, and hopefully Charlotte, the little tugboat that everyone loves.

As Moran puts it: “This museum is sailing toward a bright new horizon. We have the utmost faith that our new skipper will get us there.” Visit www.limaritime.org for more details.