BHC tabs new executive director
Megan DiPrete named to Blackstone Heritage Corridor post
The Blackstone Heritage Corridor, Inc. (BHC) has named Deputy Director Megan DiPrete as the non-profit organization’s new executive director. She replaces Charlene Perkins Cutler, who is retiring effective April 28.
DiPrete has worked as a partner and community planner for 30 years in the National Heritage Corridor, the last three on BHC’s staff. Her work with the Corridor included branding, primarily the National Heritage Corridor signage, and the planning and development of the Blackstone River Bikeway.
She also worked on a variety of projects in partnership with Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce, and worked with communities to develop National Register of Historic Places nominations, local historic districts and certified local governments. Her work also included developing river access points in Lincoln and Uxbridge.
DiPrete joined BHC as its community planner in 2014 and was promoted shortly thereafter to deputy executive drector. Prior to that, she was manager of the Community Development and Planning Program at Central Mass. Regional Planning Commission, working with federal partners and funding sources on behalf of 40 cities and towns in central Massachusetts, including the 14 Massachusetts communities in the National Heritage Corridor.
DiPrete has an extensive background in all aspects of community development policy, administration, and complex projects management. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in political science from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Hampshire, and a certificate in Construction Business Management from Northeastern University.
She has also completed senior level management training at the Donohue Institute at the University of Massachusetts. DiPrete is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners and both the Massachusetts and Rhode Island chapters of the American Planning Association.
Cutler was hired in September 2014, and was charged with the start-up and branding of the new nonprofit management entity for the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor. During her three-year tenure, Cutler revived the Volunteers-in-Parks Program, reenergized the project to build the Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center at Worcester, and shepherded the development of the new BHC Surging Toward 2026 Strategic Plan. She also attracted non-federal revenue and expanded BHC’s network of partners.
“Under Charlene's guidance and leadership, BHC has transformed itself from a federal commission to an independent non-profit working in partnership with the National Park Service,” said Harry Whitin, BHC’s board chairman. “Megan brings experience, understanding and vision to forge new bonds of partnership that will preserve the Heritage Corridor and help develop the new Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. She'll provide the kind of seamless leadership transition the National Heritage Corridor needs.”
“It’s been my great professional and personal pleasure to work for BHC and with its wonderful, talented staff,” Cutler said. “I know that Megan will take the organization to new heights.
The Blackstone Heritage Corridor, Inc. partners with organizations, local communities, businesses and residents to ensure the long term vitality of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor.