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CEO Profile

April Kirk Historic

Stranahan House Museum

By Jennifer Nayak

uilt in 1901, located in the heart of Las Olas along “I’ve tried to create more than one opportunity for
the New River, it was the home of Frank and Ivy someone to enjoy or get involved with the museum,”
BStranahan, early pioneers of Fort Lauderdale. describes Kirk.
Stranahan House is the oldest and most historically
significant structure in Broward County. Support comes from sponsors and volunteers who live and
work in downtown, as well as people who have recently
April Kirk, Executive Director, has served as the chief moved here and want to get invested in the history of their
executive officer, curator, fundraiser, and operations new home. A lively, Young Professional’s group
manager for the historic museum, eliminating debt and incorporates millennials and most docents are retired
increasing new revenue through original programming, educators and teachers. The board of directors is a mix of
community partnerships and innovative fundraising events. all ages and backgrounds, offering a diverse pool for

Taking the position in 2011, Kirk’s biggest challenge was resource development and networking.
answering the question of “what is compelling enough to “A lot of our supporters are those who have always been
make you come back?” in love with museums, but didn’t have a formal training in

Thanks to Ivy Stranahan’s commitment to education and it.” says Kirk. Many people don’t realize you can
community, Stranahan House was a favorite school trip for volunteer at a museum. Our upcoming Victorian Christmas
most Broward students. The 45 minute guided tour with is a great example.
volunteer docents, give a glimpse of an authentic and Staged as holiday party, complete with actors in period
important Victorian-era home. Aside from seasonal update dress, music and lighting. Like walking through a play,
or maintenance changes, the displays stay the same. guests experience the different traditions and stories of a
Also a artist, Kirk is creative and innovative in her classic Victorian Christmas. The entire house is decorated
leadership-style offering everyone an opportunity to for the holidays with white lights, vintage ornaments and
experience Stranahan House, beyond the guided tour. two, large trees, trimmed by luxury floral designers,

14 LAS OLAS BOULEVARD & ISLES