
Griswold
After serving as the interim coordinator of the White River Light Station in Fruitland Township, Leslie Griswold has been hired as the official coordinator.
Griswold took over operations at the light station this past summer after former curator Karen McDonnell left in March 2012 after serving as the curator since 1983. Griswold graduated from Grand Valley State University with degrees in history and non-profit management in December and took over her position at the lighthouse Jan. 1, 2013.
Griswold is a 2008 graduate of Whitehall High School. Before taking on the position of interim coordinator, Griswold interned at the Lakeshore Museum in Muskegon. Griswold lived at the lighthouse this past summer, but moved back to Grand Valley to finish her degree.
“This is an excellent opportunity to use my education,” Griswold said in a previous Beacon article.
According to Griswold, she found out about her permanent position in November and is excited to start in January.
“I’m looking forward to creating new exhibits and making the museum feel new again,” Griswold said. “Our goal is to get people aware and active in the preservation of our beautiful light station.”
The Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association took over operation of the White River Light Station this past year, and they will be hosting special events for the community, like last year, said Griswold.
The lighthouse is currently closed to the public for the season, but will open again in June 2013.