History Theatre Leadership Transition
Managing Director Karen Mueller Announces Retirement
Development Director Rob Thomas Named Successor
SAINT PAUL, MN—History Theatre today announced that after 16 years of dedicated leadership, Karen Mueller will retire as Managing Director of History Theatre as of June 30, completing a remarkable chapter in the organization's history. The Board of Directors has appointed current Development Director Rob Thomas as the organization’s next Executive Director, co-leading the organization with Artistic Director Laura Leffler.
Mueller has served as the organization's executive leader since 2010, guiding History Theatre through a period of growth and stability while advancing its mission to bring Minnesota’s stories to life on stage. Under her leadership, the organization expanded its reach throughout Minnesota, built a strong strategic reserve, which was essential during the pandemic and ensuing years, and deepened community partnerships.
“I’ve been blessed with a wonderful career in the arts in Minnesota, and my time at History Theatre has been filled with extraordinary people, purpose, and joy. What an honor it has been to help bring our shared history to life on stage alongside such talented artists, board members, colleagues, and patrons.”
Thomas brings over twenty years of experience in nonprofit leadership and fundraising, including his tenure as Development Director at History Theatre. During his tenure, he was instrumental in establishing strong relationships with donors and securing essential support for the organization’s programming. “Rob’s deep understanding of our mission, our community, and our supporters makes him the ideal leader for this next chapter,” said Jon Thomas, President of the Board of Directors. “We are grateful for Karen’s extraordinary leadership and are excited to see the organization continue to thrive under Rob’s direction.” On July 1, 2026, Thomas will assume the position of Executive Director. Thomas has been working closely with Mueller, Leffler, and the Board of Directors to guarantee a seamless and thoughtful transition. “I am honored to step into this role and build on the strong foundation Karen has established,” Thomas said. “History Theatre is essential to our theater ecosystem, and I look forward to continuing its important work.”
History Theatre will celebrate Mueller’s contributions at History Theatre’s annual benefit on June 25. For details regarding the annual benefit, please visit www.historytheatre.com/annualbenefit.
About History Theatre Since 1978, we have been dedicated to entertaining, educating, and engaging audiences through exciting performances. We commission, develop, and bring to life both new and existing works that explore Minnesota’s vibrant history and the diverse American experience. Discover how we connect the past and the present, delve into our shared heritage and illuminate what it means to be American.
Mueller has served as the organization's executive leader since 2010, guiding History Theatre through a period of growth and stability while advancing its mission to bring Minnesota’s stories to life on stage. Under her leadership, the organization expanded its reach throughout Minnesota, built a strong strategic reserve, which was essential during the pandemic and ensuing years, and deepened community partnerships.
“I’ve been blessed with a wonderful career in the arts in Minnesota, and my time at History Theatre has been filled with extraordinary people, purpose, and joy. What an honor it has been to help bring our shared history to life on stage alongside such talented artists, board members, colleagues, and patrons.”
Thomas brings over twenty years of experience in nonprofit leadership and fundraising, including his tenure as Development Director at History Theatre. During his tenure, he was instrumental in establishing strong relationships with donors and securing essential support for the organization’s programming. “Rob’s deep understanding of our mission, our community, and our supporters makes him the ideal leader for this next chapter,” said Jon Thomas, President of the Board of Directors. “We are grateful for Karen’s extraordinary leadership and are excited to see the organization continue to thrive under Rob’s direction.” On July 1, 2026, Thomas will assume the position of Executive Director. Thomas has been working closely with Mueller, Leffler, and the Board of Directors to guarantee a seamless and thoughtful transition. “I am honored to step into this role and build on the strong foundation Karen has established,” Thomas said. “History Theatre is essential to our theater ecosystem, and I look forward to continuing its important work.”
History Theatre will celebrate Mueller’s contributions at History Theatre’s annual benefit on June 25. For details regarding the annual benefit, please visit www.historytheatre.com/annualbenefit.
About History Theatre Since 1978, we have been dedicated to entertaining, educating, and engaging audiences through exciting performances. We commission, develop, and bring to life both new and existing works that explore Minnesota’s vibrant history and the diverse American experience. Discover how we connect the past and the present, delve into our shared heritage and illuminate what it means to be American.