Sanibel Historical Museum & Village Announces Interim Leadership and Strategic Assessment
Elaine Reed, Interim Executive Director of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, brings more than 35 years of non-profit leadership experience, including her tenure as CEO of the Naples Historical Society.
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village has engaged Soukup Strategic Solutions, a Southwest Florida–based consulting firm that advises nonprofit organizations nationwide on governance, fundraising strategy, and organizational leadership, to conduct an organizational assessment and provide interim executive leadership support.
Elaine Reed, representing Soukup Strategic Solutions on this engagement, will lead the assessment and serve as Interim Executive Director during the initial phase of the work.
Reed brings more than 35 years of nonprofit leadership experience, including serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Naples Historical Society from 2007 to 2024. Her career includes leadership roles and consulting engagements supporting nonprofit organizations locally, nationally, and internationally.
“My first impression of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village was nothing short of stellar,” said Reed. “There is a strong foundation already in place, an engaged Board, and significant opportunities to build on that momentum while strengthening the organization’s future.”
“Engaging Soukup Strategic Solutions and Elaine Reed represents an important step as we evaluate the organization’s future and ensure long-term sustainability,” said Gail Migliorini, President of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. “We are excited to benefit from Elaine’s experience and guidance during this process.”
Aerial view of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, featuring nine historic buildings relocated from their original sites and a replica Packing House, all preserving and sharing the history of Sanibel, Florida.
The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is a 501(c)3 organization that relies on membership fees, admissions, and charitable donations. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Founded in 1984, the Village is excited to welcome visitors during its 42nd year of preserving, sharing, and celebrating Sanibel’s history. The general tour experience includes an orientation video and eight historic buildings displaying numerous artifacts telling engaging stories. Much of the site is handicap accessible. The Rutland House remains closed post-Hurricane Ian.
The Village Gift Shop in Shore Haven is open during the regular schedule. Admission is not required to shop. Much of the merchandise is by local authors, artists and entrepreneurs.
The Village is located on Sanibel Island at 950 Dunlop Road (next to BIG ARTS) and parking is free.
Visit the Village’s website for more information about Sanibel’s history, events and programs during the 2025-2026 Season, and to sign up for our E-Newsletter: www.sanibelmuseum.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village announces it will close to the public starting April 27, 2026. Tours will be available again on October 15, 2026.
On Monday, March 9th, the volunteers at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village will have an opportunity to learn the “real story” of Punta Rassa from the grandchildren of Leon Crumpler and Clyde Riddle.
Before tourism, theme parks, and booming cities, there was the Florida Cracker. “Crackers” are named from the sharp crack of long braided whip used by Florida cowmen to drive cattle through dense brush.