herschell carrousel factory museum staff
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IAn K. Seppala
Executive Director

​Ian began volunteering at the museum in 2015 and has had various roles. He became the Education Director starting in October 2018. In November 2020 Ian became the Interim Director of the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum. He was announced as the Executive Director permanently in July 2021.
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Seppala obtained a M.A. Degree in Museum Studies from Morgan State University. His previous experience includes the Historic Ships in Baltimore and the Rochester Museum and Science Center. His goals for the year include increasing the wide array of programs for the community, and creating an inviting atmosphere at the museum.

Shirley Burgess
​Office and events manager

​Shirley began working at the museum in 2008. She organizes all of the events that happen at the museum include Spooktacular, Santa on the Carrousel, and birthday parties.
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When not at the museum Shirley likes to spend time with her grandchildren, go on motorcycle rides with her husband, and cheer on the Buffalo Bills!

Marissa Seib
​Education coordinator

​Marissa has been with the museum in various capacities since her education internship in Fall 2019. She served as the gift shop manager for a year, then served as the outreach coordinator, and in November 2021 she became the education coordinator. She is a 2019 Niagara University graduate and is currently working on her MA at Buff State. Marissa is also a NYS wedding officiant. In her free time Marissa likes to hang out with her pug mix, Annie. 

Cathy Happ
Office Assistant, Volunteer Coordinator

Cathy began working at the museum in 2020. She recruits and organizes museum volunteers. She is a Long Island native that has found her home in Buffalo. In her free time Cathy loves to spend time with her children and grandchildren. 

George Sneeden
​custodian

George joined the HCFM staff in March 2021. When not at the museum he works at the Sweeney Hose Company in North Tonawanda. You might know him as the driver of the antique firetruck. 

DArren Poltorak
Gift shop manager

​Darren began working for the museum in 2022. He is the kind face that will greet you at the museum most days. He is a PhD Candidate in anthropology at SUNY Buffalo, and spends most of his free time writing his dissertation and playing board games.