The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM) has named Anita Williams Galiano as its new interim executive director, after former director Donnetta Johnson stepped down at the end of June 2024.
Williams Galiano, who serves as the Hopewell Valley Regional Board of Education president, has been a Hopewell Township resident for over two decades.
“My passion for community and education runs deep, rooted in my upbringing on a reservation in South Dakota, where my parents instilled in my siblings and me a unique sense of family and community,” shared Williams Galiano with MercerMe. “Coming from three generations of educators, I’ve always been guided by the values of service and education. These values drive me in everything I do, whether it’s through community work, holding leadership roles on the HVRSD School Board, standing relentlessly for every single child, or accepting the leadership opportunity at SSAAM.
My deep commitment to community building is also inspired by my family’s legacy. My mother, Harriette, dedicated her entire life to education, teaching high school students and leading sewing classes in senior centers across Mercer County. My father, Rufus, was a devoted soil conservationist who worked tirelessly to bridge racial divides while serving with the Bureau of Indian Affairs.”
A seasoned professional in executive operations and strategic development, Williams Galiano has specialized in healthcare technology and international supply chain management at Johnson & Johnson. She holds a BA in Communication with a focus on Organizational Design, from the University of Iowa, which underpins her success in fundraising and project management.
“As I step into the role of Interim Executive Director at SSAAM, I bring this rich background and a vision that goes beyond preserving history. I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to combine my passion for community building, my expertise in communications and operations management, and my love for uncovering and preserving African American history—a passion deeply rooted in my own family’s journey. With a strong belief in the power of education and a commitment to empowering youth, I am dedicated to enhancing our operational structures, fostering collaborative and inclusive partnerships, and ensuring SSAAM continues to thrive as a beacon of history and community.”
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In a public announcement, SSAAM representatives shared, “We want to reassure you, our valued supporters, that SSAAM’s commitment to our mission remains steadfast. The important work of preserving and celebrating the ingenuity and indomitable spirit of the African American community will continue with renewed vigor. Your support has been instrumental in our success, and we encourage you to stay engaged and invested in the journey ahead.”
Williams Galiano added, “My vision is for SSAAM to be more than just a museum, but a vibrant hub where history, community, and education intertwine to inspire and educate future generations.”
For more information about the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum and its programs, visit SSAAM’s website.
