The Meriden Historical Society announces the selection of Michael J. Zaffino as its first paid administrator.

The position was secured through monies from grants provided by the CT Humanities and Connecticut League of History Organizations. CT Humanities monies were generated through the SHARP (Sustaining the Humanities through the American Rescue Plan) Capacity Grants and the CT Cultural Fund Operating Support Grants. Meriden Historical Society was one of 624 organizations to receive monies to help serve their public.

“Michael has a wide range of experiences and skills that will help us move forward to bring our organization to the next level of services for the city of Meriden and its residents,” said Ruth Borsuk, president of MHS. “He has a primarily educational background but also experience working with a variety of stakeholders to improve an organization.” The Executive Board and the interview committees were impressed with his positive personality, his desire to help the organization and appreciation of Meriden'ss past and future. Zaffino holds a MS in History from Southern Connecticut State University and has taught at a variety of schools, most recently at Bunnell High School in Stratford.

The hiring is part of the transition of moving the Historical Society from its previous home on 1090 Hanover Ave. to its recently purchased historical property of 39-41 West Main St., which formerly housed the Meriden office of Connecticut Gas & Electric. Meriden Historical Society (www.meridenhistoricalsociety.org) is a not for profit tax exempt 501(c) (3) organization. Established in 1892, the MHS stewards the rich and diverse history of Meriden, Connecticut and its people. At the MHS we collect, preserve, research, and exhibit artifacts: create educational programming; and support research that accurately interprets Meriden’s past.