Matheson History Museum names new executive director, Salvatore J. Cumella
Press release from Matheson History Museum
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Board of Directors of the Matheson History Museum is pleased to announce the hiring of Salvatore “Sal” Cumella as the museum’s new executive director.
“I am both honored and excited to take the helm at the Matheson, continuing its proud tradition of serving Alachua County for over thirty years. I look forward to preserving and celebrating the rich tapestry of our local history, showcasing the diverse stories that shape our community. I am eager to enhance the visitor experience through dynamic programming, active community engagement, and strong partnerships. I look forward to building upon the solid foundation laid by my predecessor, Kaitlyn Hof-Mahoney, and advancing the Matheson’s legacy as a hub for local history. Having previously called Gainesville home for more than 20 years, I am looking forward to reconnecting with old friends and meeting new friends who share a passion for our local history.”
A graduate of the University of Florida, Cumella is the founder and principal planner at Helios Preservation Consulting LLC. Previously, he served as the senior planner for the City of Fernandina Beach and the Historic Preservation Planner for the City of Gainesville.
Board President Robert Mounts states, “I am pleased to welcome our new Executive Director, Salvatore J. (“Sal”) Cumella, an experienced Historic Preservation planner. Sal received his Master’s in Historic Preservation from the University of Florida in 2023 and is well-equipped to lead the Matheson and preserve its many historic buildings and collections in the years to come.”
Mounts added, “I am equally sad to announce the imminent departure of our outstanding Executive Director, Kaitlyn Hof-Mahoney, after nine years of faithful service to the museum, serving superbly nearly three and a half years as Executive Director. Ms. Hof-Mahoney is leaving the Matheson in excellent shape.”
The search for Hof-Mahoney’s replacement started in April after she announced her desire to pursue other opportunities. Hof-Mahoney’s last day at the Matheson will be Saturday, September 28.
The Matheson Board’s Search Committee conducted interviews and made their recommendation at the August Board meeting. Cumella will begin at the Matheson on Monday, September 16, in order to have two weeks of overlap with Hof-Mahoney.
Kaitlyn Hof-Mahoney says, “I have greatly enjoyed the past nine years with the Matheson, and it remains dear to my heart. It has been a privilege to work with each member of our board, staff, and community to share the vibrant history of Gainesville and Alachua County. I am very proud of the work we have done together over the past few years to re-ignite the exhibitions and programming of the museum after our extended closure in 2020. We have built a strong institution that is poised to step into its next 30 years and beyond. I am delighted to hand the reins to Salvatore Cumella. His enthusiasm and strong background in historic preservation is just what the Matheson needs. I am confident that the Museum will continue to flourish under his leadership and look forward to seeing his vision for the future of the Matheson.”