Joseph E. Aulisi has been named the acting director of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, museum president Stella F. Thayer announced Oct. 12.Aulisi replaces Peter Hammell, who resigned his position. Hammell has been the director of the museum since June 1992. He is moving into a role as a museum consultant. Catherine A. Maguire will continue her duties as the assistant director.Aulisi is a native of Johnstown, N.Y., and attended Middlebury College. He has been the development officer at the museum since 2000 and will maintain his role in development. Before becoming a member of the staff, Aulisi was vice-president of a New York-based accessories firm and was a museum trustee.
"Joe brings many years of experience to this new assignment," Thayer said. "He has worked closely with the trustees on fund-raising initiatives and is well-versed in the day-to-day operation of the museum. We are confident in his abilities."During his tenure, Hammell helped oversee the expansion of the building in 2000, which added 10,000 square feet of exhibit space and included a re-design of the existing space."We are grateful to Peter for his many years of service," Thayer said. "He was the first museum-trained professional to join the staff and he has had a positive impact on the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame."