Leadership Update from AMM

Dear Friends of the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park, 

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to share important news about a leadership transition at AMM. 

After 12 and a half years of remarkable service, Alice Estrada has informed the Board of her decision to resign as President & CEO. We are deeply grateful for her many contributions and the lasting impact she has made on this organization. Under her leadership, AMM has grown its programs, expanded its facilities, strengthened its financial position, and enhanced its role as a vital community resource. 

In addition to her accomplishments, Alice has graciously agreed to remain with AMM for the next month to assist with the transition and ensure continuity for our members, donors, staff, and partners. During this period, Chief Operating Officer Susan Thaxton will serve as Interim CEO, working closely with Alice and the Board. 

The Board will soon begin a formal search process for our next President & CEO. We are committed to finding a leader who will build on the strong foundation Alice has helped create and guide AMM into its next chapter of growth and service to our community. 

Please join us in thanking Alice for her dedication, vision, and hard work, which have brought AMM to where it is today. We wish her the very best in her future endeavors and look forward to celebrating her legacy in the weeks ahead. 

With gratitude, 

Steve Picarde

Chairman of the Board

Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park

Dear Friends of the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park, 

After 12 and a half years of dedicated service, I will be transitioning from my role as President & CEO of the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. This decision comes with both gratitude and pride as I reflect on the remarkable journey we have shared. 

When I first joined AMM, we were a small but passionate organization. Today, thanks to the support of our members, donors, volunteers, staff, and Board, we have become a thriving, multifaceted institution deeply rooted in the Annapolis and Chesapeake Bay communities. Together, we have: 

• Increased organizational revenue six-fold by strategically diversifying income sources—expanding programs, cultivating donor support, securing grants, and growing earned income from venue rentals and events. 

• Secured over $5 million in capital funding, enabling the completion of transformational projects including deepwater docks, a 2,600 sq. ft. waterfront pavilion, new permanent exhibits, and a fully accessible boardwalk. 

• Doubled our physical footprint with the acquisition and activation of a 12-acre waterfront park and the historic 75-foot skipjack Wilma Lee, expanding access and programming for the entire community. 

• Launched new core programs, including a collections and archives department and a comprehensive environmental education initiative that grew student participation from 2,000 to more than 12,000 annually. 

• Achieved the highest nonprofit performance standards, earning Platinum Transparency (Candid), a Four-Star Charity Navigator rating, and accreditation through the Maryland Nonprofits Standards for Excellence program. 

• Gained regional recognition for leadership and innovation in education, preservation, and exhibits—including being named Nonprofit Executive of the Year by Nonprofit Pro Magazine in 2017. 

These accomplishments were only possible because of the collective dedication of our community. I am profoundly grateful for the privilege of leading this organization and for the trust you have placed in me. 

As I look ahead, I am confident the Museum is in a strong position to continue growing its impact, preserving our maritime heritage, and inspiring future generations to care for the Chesapeake Bay. I will cherish the memories we’ve made together and look forward to cheering on AMM’s continued success from the next chapter of my life. 

With heartfelt thanks, 

Alice Estrada

President & CEO

AMM Welcomes New Board Member David Gendell

The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park is excited to welcome David Gendell to its Board of Directors. A lifelong Annapolitan, accomplished sailor, author, and co-founder of SpinSheet and PropTalk magazines, Gendell brings deep maritime heritage and proven leadership experience to AMM. His career includes senior marketing roles at Visa and PayPal, and his books—Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse and The Last Day of the Schooner America—highlight his dedication to Chesapeake Bay history and culture.

Paddle & Explore: Kayaking Tours

Join the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park for a guided Kayak Tour every Saturday, launching right from our Park Campus at 7314 Edgewood Road. 

Led by knowledgeable guides, these eco-tours are ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. You’ll get an up-close look at local wildlife, explore the unique ecology of the Chesapeake Bay, and glide through waters steeped in Annapolis’ maritime history.

 Book Now

Rum Runners Cruise Aboard Wilma Lee

Step aboard the historic skipjack Wilma Lee for a sunset sail filled with tales of Chesapeake Bay bootleggers and Prohibition-era intrigue. 

Enjoy craft rum tastings from Lyon Rum as history comes alive on the water!

21+ | October 2

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Murder on the Waterfront - Wilma Lee True Crime Cruise

Step aboard the Skipjack Wilma Lee with local storyteller Melissa Huston for a chilling two hour true crime cruise in Annapolis. Discover deadly scandals, historic mysteries, and enjoy themed culinary creations from Bread and Butter Kitchen, perfectly paired with a selection of beer, wine, and canned cocktails. Visit https://amaritime.org/skipjack-tours/ to book now! 

Sept 3 | 5:30–7:30 PM | $150 (21+ only)

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The Boatyard Beach Bash is Back -

Tickets On Sale Now!

Join us for our annual Boatyard Beach Bash this year, Saturday, September 20, 4-10 PM at the Annapolis Maritime Museum Campus (723 Second Street) as we bring the Key West to Annapolis with live tropical tunes, cold drinks, and toes-in-the-sand vibes. 

Enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars featuring world-class musicians, great food, and a relaxed, island-style atmosphere — all in support of the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park’s education programs. 

Tickets sell fast — don’t miss the boat!

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