As The Friends of Washington Crossing Park continue to expand educational opportunities and enhance the visitor experience in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the Crossing, we’re excited to announce the promotion of two exceptional team members into newly established director-level roles: Michelle Flanagan as Director of Operations and Ross Heutmaker as Director of Education.
These roles reflect our deep commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for every visitor, expanding access to engaging and meaningful educational programs, and building the organizational capacity needed to serve our community now and through the 250th anniversary and beyond.
Michelle Flanagan – Director of Operations
Michelle joined the FWCP staff in 2024 as Administrative Assistant, bringing strong organizational skills and nearly a decade of volunteer service at Washington Crossing Historic Park. As a volunteer, she contributed to the visitor experience in many ways, serving as an educator and leader on our Artillery Crew and providing logistical support for major fundraising events. Michelle is especially passionate about ensuring that every guest who walks into the park feels welcomed, inspired, and connected to their history and community.
In her new role, Michelle will support and collaborate with our Museum Shop Coordinator, Visitor Services Coordinator, and Historical Interpreters to enhance daily operations and elevate the overall visitor experience. Her key areas of focus will include daily tours, front desk training and policies, facilities use, gift shop operations and event logistics. Michelle’s thoughtful leadership and guest-first mindset are already making a positive impact at the park and her work will be central as we prepare for increased visitation in 2026.
Ross Heutmaker – Director of Education
Ross has been a valued member of our educational programs team since 2016, most recently serving as Farmstead Manager at the Thompson Neely Farm. He is an incredibly passionate educator and historian with a deep understanding of program development and execution. Ross has led several aspects of the park’s educational offerings, including our annual Wheat and Sheep program and Colonial Days field trips, where he spearheaded the inclusion of several new trades demonstrations, such as 18th-century woodworking, natural dyeing, textiles and maple sugaring.
He also led the creation of our Farmstead Fridays series and has served as the lead interpretive guide for the Thompson-Neely Farmstead and Grist Mill. He has also worked closely with our Historical Horticulturist in support of developing and expanding the park’s interpretive gardens.
In his new role, Ross will lead the creation and enhancement of the park’s educational programming, working closely with our Interpretive Program Specialist, Volunteer and Educational Programs Coordinator, Historical Horticulturalist and Civilian Programs Coordinator. His responsibilities will include guiding our educational programs team in enhancing the sites’ hands-on field trip programs, curriculum alignment, educational outreach, volunteer training, and enhancements to our indoor and outdoor classrooms, including our officers’ quarters, soldiers camp, farmstead and historic gardens.
Ross and Michelle will both play a key role in expanding and implementing large-scale community wide celebrations for the 250th, including our annual Independence Day Celebration and Christmas Day Crossing Reenactment, ensuring they are even more engaging and educational for all visitors.
Michelle and Ross will join our new Director of Development, Bryanna Galvan, to form a collaborative and dynamic leadership team at The Friends of Washington Crossing Park. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise, creativity, and dedication that will guide the organization into this historic milestone and ensure we continue to serve our mission with excellence.
Please join us in congratulating Michelle and Ross on their well-deserved promotions!