STAFF

​Executive Director - Rita Mukherjee Hoffstadt, Ed.D.​​​​​

Dr. Hoffstadt brings over 25 years of experience developing dynamic exhibits for diverse audiences and managing federal and state grants ranging from $0.5 to $7 million. She earned her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) from the University of Pittsburgh in 2023, focusing on equity and justice in education, improvement science, and learning ecosystems. Since joining Folsom History in 2021, she has collaborated with staff, stakeholders, and the board to transform the organization into a more innovative, outward-facing institution. Previously, as Deputy Director of Powerhouse Science Center, she led the development and communication of the center’s mission and vision, refined a $49M master plan for a new building, optimized programming and revenue strategies, and guided exhibit design. She also holds an MS in Museum Education Leadership from Bank Street College and an MS in Biology from Penn State University.

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Program Director - Sheila Montgomery

Shelia has over 20 years in developing engaging programming for the general public. At Folsom History she oversees the planning and production of individual programs and ongoing series—including liaising with external program speakers and performers, ensuring the highest quality of programming experience for Museum visitors. In addition, she trains all our program volunteers on educational content. Prior to joining Folsom History in Fall of 2022, she worked as Powerhouse Science Center as Manager of Science Engagement. Sheila holds a BS in Wildlife Sciences from University of California, Davis.

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Operations and Collections Director - Tyler Tocci

Tyler joined Folsom History in May 2023 as the Visitor Services Coordinator and has since become the Operations and Collections Director. His 10+ years of experience in volunteer organizations allows him to connect with Folsom History’s dedicated volunteer base and lead them to strong programming, collections care, and exhibit curation. Tyler has a B.A. in History from California State University, Sacramento, where he is finishing his M.A. in Public History, focusing on capturing modern stories through oral history projects.

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Museum Engagement Manager - Zachary Vaccarezza

Zachary joined the team in April 2024 as the Visitor Services Associate and is now the Museum Engagement Manager, focusing on the improvement of visitor experiences through fun public events and museum visits. Zachary has a B.A. in History with a minor in Political Science from Sonoma State University. He is currently pursuing his M.A. in Public History at California State University, Sacramento. His academic focus includes persecution stories in the American West, such as the experiences of Chinese immigrants in California, with a particular interest in how political ideologies and public policies shaped their experiences. 

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Public Programs Coordinator - Hazel Bess

Hazel joined the Folsom History staff in May 2025 as the Public Programs Coordinator. In addition to working with Folsom History’s team of volunteers to operate The Square, she assists with the site’s evolution into a dynamic makerspace, implementing maker activities, artist demonstrations, and workshops. After graduating from Franklin & Marshall College, where she studied History and French, Hazel spent several years working in historic preservation with the National Park Service. She is currently pursuing an M.A. in Public History at California State University, Sacramento.