Historic Locust Grove Announces New Chief Executive Officer

Press Release
For 12/09/2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 09, 2024
Media Contact:
Carol Ely, CEO
Historic Locust Grove
561 Blankenbaker Lane Louisville, KY 40207
Email: ely@locustgrove.org | Phone: (502) 897-9845

Historic Locust Grove, Inc. is thrilled to announce that the Board of Directors has named Jessica Dawkins as the new Chief Executive Officer of Locust Grove, effective January 06, 2025.

Jessica Dawkins has been a museum professional and local historian for nearly 20 years. She received a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Louisville and a Master’s degree in Business Communication from Spalding University, both of which were fully funded by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation in Washington DC. She is also a graduate of the History Leadership Institute, class of 2016.

Her passion lies in 19th century Ohio Valley history, and this focus brought her to work to museums like Farmington Historic Home and the Portland Museum. As the Southeast Regional Director for the Indiana State Museum & Historic Sites, she directed 3 historic sites located in Southern Indiana – Culbertson Mansion in New Albany, Corydon Capitol in Corydon, and Lanier Mansion in Madison. She served as Deputy Director of the Kentucky Historical Society and most recently as the Executive Director of Liberty Hall Historic Site in Frankfort, Kentucky. Jessica has also served on several non-profit boards & committees, including Louisville Public Media’s Community Advisory Board and Happy Birthday Park. Recognitions include Business First’s 20 People to Know in Tourism & Hospitality and the New Albany Hometown Hero Award.

“How exciting to begin this new chapter with Historic Locust Grove, for myself and for my community. As a passionate advocate for this work, I believe inspirational storytelling, creative programming, and intentional collaboration can elevate the role of history and historical thinking as a crucial tool in the life of the everyday citizen. My vision for Locust Grove includes a tangible, authentic commitment to the stories of our past, with focus on the importance of Louisville’s history for each one of us. We all have something to learn from Locust Grove, and I look forward to learning it alongside you.” 

Dawkins succeeds current Chief Executive Officer Carol Ely, who has led the organization for the last twenty years. We are thrilled to have her leadership and expertise at Locust Grove. Welcome Jessica!

About Historic Locust Grove

Historic Locust Grove is a National Historic Landmark established in 1792 and home to the Croghan family. The site preserves and interprets the history of early Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley, offering tours, educational programs, and special events highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage.