Louise Avery stood at the heart of Kitimat’s cultural evolution, transforming a modest museum into a cornerstone of the community. Now, after nearly three decades of dedicated service, she’s stepping aside, leaving behind a legacy of growth, resilience, and connection.
“Her respectful advocacy and professionalism on behalf of the Kitimat Museum has been exceptional,” said Board Chair Katherine Johnsen, reflecting on Avery’s steadfast leadership.
In 1996, Avery stepped into a museum in need of direction. Over the years, she infused it with new life, introducing vibrant programs, building lasting partnerships, and amplifying local voices. Today, the Kitimat Museum & Archives welcomes thousands of visitors annually, its halls alive with stories of art, history, and the Haisla Nation’s heritage.
A key chapter of Avery’s tenure was her collaboration with the Haisla Nation. She championed reconciliation, culminating in a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding for the Haisla Photograph Image Collection. This landmark agreement deepened ties, bringing Haisla representation to the museum’s board and leading to exhibits that celebrate Haisla artistry and history, including the recent Haisla Artists exhibition featuring works by 25 local artists. Avery’s work also facilitated discussions on a shared museum facility with the Haisla Nation, a project still under consideration.
Avery’s influence extended beyond the museum itself. She served on various boards, including Kitimat Arts for Youth and the Kitimat Community Foundation. In recognition of her contributions, the BC Museums Association awarded her the Golden Service Award.
“I have observed Louise Avery’s dedication, her leadership and her ongoing passion and vision for preserving and sharing local history and culture,” said Johnsen. “She has been instrumental in creating strong relationships and community connections that foster learning, engagement, pride and celebration about our community through our museum.”
Avery says she remains committed to Kitimat and hopes to contribute to future museum projects. “Museum work has been my passion for so long, it is hard to give it up,” she said.
The search for the museum’s next executive director is underway.
