PRESS RELEASE 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Otter Tail County Historical Society Honors the Retirement of Executive 
Director Chris Schuelke and Begins Search for New Leadership 

FERGUS FALLS, MN (February 2026) — The Otter Tail County Historical Society (OTCHS) 
Board of Directors announces the upcoming retirement of longtime Executive Director Chris 
Schuelke and expresses deep gratitude for his years of thoughtful, steadfast leadership. Chris 
has been a passionate advocate for local history and a guiding presence for staff, volunteers, 
and the wider community, and has earned the distinction of being the longest-serving director of 
a history museum in the State of Minnesota. Through his dedication to preserving and sharing 
Otter Tail County’s stories, he has helped shape the historical society into the valued institution it 
is today. The OTCHS board extends sincere appreciation for his service and wishes him the 
very best in retirement. A celebration in honor of Mr. Schuelke’s years of service will be 
announced separately. 

OTCHS is now accepting applications for the position of Executive Director, a full-time, 
permanent leadership role that will guide the organization into its next chapter of growth and 
community impact. Applications will be received until 5 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026.  
As the Society’s chief executive officer, the Executive Director provides strategic vision and 
operational leadership for OTCHS, overseeing staff, finances, facilities, collections, and public 
programming. The role works closely with the OTCHS Board of Directors and serves as the 
organization’s primary spokesperson and representative throughout Otter Tail County. 
“This is a unique opportunity to step into a leadership role at a beloved local institution—while 
helping more people connect with Otter Tail County’s rich history,” said Jess Torgerson, Board 
Chair of the Otter Tail County Historical Society. “We’re hoping to find a collaborative, 
community-centered leader who builds meaningful connections, embraces diverse voices, and 
helps steward the stories that shape who we are—while guiding OTCHS forward with fresh 
ideas and a modern approach.” 

The Executive Director will play a key role in organizational planning, fundraising and grant 
management, and long-term strategy, including future facility planning related to collections 
storage and exhibit needs. OTCHS also continues to expand its digital presence and access to 
historical resources, making this an exciting time for a leader interested in both preservation and 
innovation. 

The position is based primarily onsite in Fergus Falls, with some travel throughout Otter Tail 
County required. Core hours are Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend and evening 
hours as needed. The annual salary is $50,000–$60,000, depending on experience, and the 
role includes a full benefits package including health and dental insurance, a retirement plan, 
and paid time off. 

Qualifications 
Qualified applicants will have demonstrated administrative leadership experience, including 
personnel management, budgeting, grant writing and grants management, and marketing and 
promotions. Education requirements may be met through a bachelor’s or master’s degree in 
history or a related field paired with relevant professional experience, or through commensurate 
experience. 

How to Apply 
The full job description and position details are available at: 
https://www.otchs.org/Jobs/Jobs.html 
To apply, please submit the following materials: 
● Cover letter (PDF preferred) 
● Résumé (PDF preferred) 
Email your application to chair@otchs.org with the subject line: 
Executive Director Application – [Your Name] 
Finalists may be asked to provide references. 

About Otter Tail County Historical Society 
The Otter Tail County Historical Society preserves, interprets, and shares the history of Otter Tail 
County through exhibits, collections care, research services, educational programming, and 
community partnerships—ensuring local stories remain accessible for future generations. 
Media Contact: 
Otter Tail County Historical Society 
Jess Torgerson, Board Chair 
chair@otchs.org  
www.otchs.org 

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. For best consideration, please apply by 5 
PM on Friday, February 27. The ideal start date is May 2026.