Michael Quinn

H.F. (Gerry) Lenfest, chairman of the American Revolution Center today announced that Michael C. Quinn will join the organization as president and CEO effective April 1, 2012. Quinn will oversee all aspects of the development of The Museum of the American Revolution, to be built in the historic area of Philadelphia.

Since 1999, Quinn has served as president and CEO of The Montpelier Foundation, the private non-profit organization that operates James Madison’s Montpelier, a National Trust Historic Site in Virginia. Under his leadership, the home of James Madison and its surrounding environment were transformed from a 1900s mansion into a vibrant interpretive and educational center focusing on James Madison and the U.S. Constitution. He oversaw the $25 million restoration of James Madison’s home, and the planning and construction of a 15,000 square foot visitor center. He conceived and oversaw the establishment of the Center for the Constitution, which annually provides advanced intellectual seminars on constitutional theory for more than 700 teachers, police officers, and legislators.

Previously, Quinn served as deputy director at Mt. Vernon’s Ladies Association where he was responsible for on-site interpretation, educational programs, special events, marketing, public relations, and publications. He also served as executive director of the D.C. Preservation League and as a preservation planner for the U.S. Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. Quinn received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia, a Master of Arts from Yale University, and a Master of Business Administration from George Mason University. He will be moving to Philadelphia with his wife, Carolyn.

“Mike Quinn has a strong background in the founding history of this Nation that makes him uniquely suited to lead The American Revolution Center during this exciting time.” said Lenfest. “Working together with our Board, he will lead us to the successful opening of The Museum of the American Revolution–the Nation’s first museum to tell the entire story of the American Revolution.”

Quinn commented, “I am honored to help The American Revolution Center achieve its ambitious goals. Its mission–to engage the public in the history and significance of the American Revolution-is one of the most urgent imperatives of every generation. The concepts of individual liberty and popular self-governance were forged and tested in the Revolution, and have sustained us as a Nation. The ideals of the American Revolution still define the American people, and must be understood and upheld by every individual for the nation to thrive.”

About The American Revolution Center

The American Revolution Center is a non-partisan, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to engaging the public in the history and enduring legacy of the American Revolution. The American Revolution Center owns a distinguished collection of objects, artifacts and manuscripts, and is working to establish a living memorial to the American Revolution–The Museum of the American Revolution. For more information,  visit the Center’s website at AmericanRevolutionCenter.org.