Executive Director Of The Barnum Museum Has Stepped Down

BRIDGEPORT — After serving for more than three years as The Barnum Museum’s Executive Director and then two years as Director of Development, Susan J. Agamy has resigned, effective May 2, to take a position as Executive Director of ACT, Inc., which operates the Spooner House Emergency Shelter and Valley Food Bank Network. Ms Agamy’s resignation was accepted with regrets by the museum’s board during its April meeting.

“Susan has done a wonderful job as executive director during the past three years,” stated the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ted Grabarz. “She has energized her staff, added new exhibits and forged strong community relationships on behalf of The Barnum Museum. We will definitely miss her and wish her great success in her new position.”

“We have a board of directors committed to continuing and building on the successful audience development programs Susan has put in place,” added Elinor Biggs, vice chair of the board and a descendant of P.T. Barnum.

“Thanks to her efforts, The Barnum Museum has strengthened its core exhibitions, broadened its programs, and built strong community alliances,” commented Bridgeport Mayor John M. Fabrizi. “The Barnum Museum is one of Bridgeport’s greatest assets, and Susan’s dedication to the museum and to our city was evident in her many accomplishments.”

Ms Agamy represents The Barnum Museum on the boards of the Coastal Fairfield County Convention and Visitor Bureau, Barnum Festival, and Connecticut League of History Organizations. She has been a voice for the museum at the State Capitol, and has championed the City of Bridgeport’s commitment to revitalization through cultural attractions.

In 2003 and 2004, Ms Agamy was instrumental in staging “William Brinley’s Amazing, All-New Miniature Circus,” an exhibit still on view at the museum. The 5,000-piece hand-carved miniature circus was the lifelong work of William Brinley of Meriden and it not only received national attention, it has also increased museum attendance.  It is on display through December 31, 2005.

During the summer of 2004, the circulation unit that cools the older city-owned portion of the museum building failed and Ms Agamy appealed to the public and area corporations for help.  At a crucial time, the State under Governor Jodi Rell, stepped in and promised state bond funds to replace the necessary ventilation systems.