News release
At its monthly meeting Monday, the Ellis County Historical Society Board of Trustees voted unanimously to promote Amanda Rupp to executive director. Rupp has been acting as the interim director since March 2021. She has degrees from Fort Hays State University in Art History and Graphic Design and had worked in various capacities for ECHS from 2012 to 2015.
During her tenure, Rupp has led the society to new growth and reorganization.
“We have been very impressed with the hard work, true dedication and excellent outcomes Amanda has given to the society in the past sixteen months," said Priscilla Hunt, 2021 board president. "Under her leadership, we look forward to a vibrant and flourishing future for our organization and for the people we serve."
Together with the ECHS Board, Rupp will guide the society in carrying out its mission. She has a passion for working with Ellis County communities to “Save Our Past’s Future."
“I was born in Ellis County and I love the people of western Kansas.” Rupp said.“I want to see the society create new community partnerships which celebrate and teach our unique history and culture to current and future generations. We have challenges in funding and a lot of work to do with our artifacts. But we have a plan and we have a golden army of volunteers who are helping us with their sweat equity and hours of personal time to meet and exceed our goals. It is very exciting, and we want everyone to join us.”