Alessi began her career at the museum in 1997 under the auspices of a conservation grant from the Institute for Museum and Library Services, a federal agency. She became a full-time employee in 2003.

The only membership organization in the United States dedicated to the preservation of cultural material, the American Institute plays a crucial role in establishing and upholding professional standards, promoting research and publications, providing educational opportunities and fostering the exchange of knowledge among conservators, allied professionals and the public.

The Professional Associate application process is dependent on peer review by three Professional Associates or Fellows who serve as sponsors.

The role of the sponsor is to establish the level of knowledge, skill and experience of the applicant. Alessi was required to complete an application and provide a presentation of her work for consideration by the sponsors.

In her role as conservator, Alessi is responsible for more than 100,000 two- and three-dimensional artifacts in the collections of the Adirondack Museum.

The Adirondack Museum tells the story of the Adirondacks through exhibits, special events, classes for schools and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. The museum will open for a new season on May 23, introducing a new exhibit, "Rustic Tomorrow." For information about upcoming exhibits and programs, call (518) 352-7311 or visit www.adirondackmuseum.org.

Adirondack History Center wins

grant funding

ELIZABETHTOWN -- The Adirondack History Center Museum has won a GO grant of $552.10 to allow Director Margaret Gibbs and Assistant to the Director Jenifer Kuba to attend the Museum Association of New York's Conference in Albany on April 14. Kuba will also attend the Association for State and Local History workshop "Digitization and Museums" on April 17 and 18. The grant from the New York State Council on the Arts, a state agency, and administered by the Upstate History Alliance will allow the Adirondack History Center to continue meeting goals of its strategic plan. To learn more about GO grant programs, eligibility requirements and deadlines, visit UHA's Web site at www.upstatehistory.org or contact the Upstate History Alliance by e-mail at info@upstatehistory.org or by phone at (800) 895-1648. The Adirondack History Center Museum is located at 7590 Court St., Elizabethtown. It is open Memorial Day through Columbus Day. For information, call 873-6466.