RIJHA executive director to leave

Kate-Lynne Laroche, executive director of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association, has resigned effective April 5.

Laroche said she is leaving to spend more time with her young family. In a letter to members, she wrote, “I will be forever grateful for the almost seven years I’ve spent at the association. The people I’ve worked with … will always hold a special place in my heart.”

RIJHA president Harold Foster said in an email, “I know I speak for everyone when I thank Kate-Lynne for all she’s done for the association and the community and wish her only the best.”

During her tenure, Laroche raised RIHJA’s public profile by collaborating on programs with other community organizations, opened up online access to RIJHA’s archives and spearheaded efforts to digitize the archives.

Foster said RIJHA’s Executive Committee will meet this week to discuss the opening and possibly to suggest adjustments to the schedules of the remaining staffers. Currently, Office Manager Jaime Waldon works 20 hours a week, while archivist Sam Turco works 30 hours.