By Scott Harvey
Commerce – Following a two month search, the Northeast Texas Children's Museum has announced Sharline Freeman as its new director.
Freeman, of Pecan Gap in Delta County, most recently served as a student teacher supervisor in the alternative certification program at Texas A&M University-Commerce.
She replaces Former Director Marypaz, who stepped down earlier this year after accepting a similar position in Massachusetts. Freeman had been serving as interim director since Marypaz's departure.
"I realize we're fortunate that Sharline will be taking over the reins of the Museum permanently," said Alton Biggs, the Museum Board's president. "Sharline has many ideas and relationships in the community. These will immediately translate into better programming and other improvements. If you haven't been to the Museum in a while, you need to visit and see the recent results of Mrs. Freeman's work."
"I am delighted that Sharline fell in love with the Museum during her time as Interim Executive Director and decided to apply for the permanent position," Niesje Cooper, the Museum Board's secretary commented. "I wholeheartedly welcome her on board as Executive Director and look forward to seeing the Museum grow and prosper under her watch."
Freeman began her career as a social studies teacher. She eventually became the director of Enterprise City, a program in Richardson ISD that allows children to run a model city for a day. While director, the program received three national awards. In addition, it received funding from Meadows Foundation and Hillcrest Foundation.
"Sharline's extensive experience at Enterprise City and her local connections gave her the edge when the selection committee made its decision to recommend her," stated Mr. Biggs.
Freeman is a member of the Hunt County Retired Teachers Association, Psychology Club, Pecan Gap City Council, and Pecan Gap Cemetery Association. She has held leadership positions in almost every community activity in which she's been involved. Mrs. Freeman is a member of First Baptist Church, Commerce with her husband, Weldon.
Freeman holds a BA from Baylor University and Med from the University of North Texas. In addition to her degrees she has a Mid-Management Certification from Texas A&M University-Commerce.