In 2004, Susan Gold joined the Westport Historical Society as education director. She became executive director in 2007.
After 10 years, she’s leaving that post. Her legacy is an organization that does great work, has made an important mark in town — and is filled with her friends and admirers.
History and non-profits are just 2 of Gold’s passions.
The Ithaca College grad (with master’s from Cornell University) is an avid swimmer, hiker and kayaker. (She’s probably the reason the WHS sponsored a kayak tour out to Cockenoe Island.)
Gold has run 14 marathons — including a personal best of 3:09 in the prestigious New York event. She’s won numerous age group races, at a variety of distances.
WHS board member Leigh Gage calls Gold “a bundle of energy. She gets up at 5 a.m. to run and do qigong. Many evenings after work, she teaches yoga or qigong.” Many of her classes are free — she asks only for donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Susan Gold, in a typical pose.
A Rotarian, Sue volunteers often at events like Lobsterfest. (That figures: She’s a pescatarian — and an avid Westport Farmers’ Market greens shopper. She usually returns to the office with gifts for the staff.)
Historical Society directors will miss the annual January luncheon. Gold cooked a vegan meal for the entire board. It was one more way to give back.
Past president Joan Andrews calls Gold “dedicated, resourceful, and a tireless promoter of all things related to WHS — especially children’s programs, fundraising events and exhibits. She has served us as our gracious and smiling face to the community, and will be sorely missed by us all.”
Former president Ed Gerber adds, “Very effectively, Susan told me of the work of the WHS, and how she thought I could help based on my enthusiasm for history and historic preservation. She reeled me in, and I thank her for it!”
Gold’s daughter Rachel has 2 children. They live in Washington. She looks forward in retirement to visiting them often.
She has another daughter, Hannah — and her son David lives in Central America. She’ll visit both too.
Susan Gold may soon be WHS “history.” But — like the most important parts of who we are — she will be well remembered.