Steve has been responsible for the extraordinary growth of the MHS audience, both live and virtual. He has planned and implemented all public programs at MHS, increasing numbers and diversity through better communications and partnerships with many Maine cultural organizations. Steve has been instrumental in the success of Maine Memory Network--the Society's statewide, online collaborative museum--raising more than $3 million in grants and designing new, innovative programs, such as the Maine Community Heritage Project, to help promote the role of history in creating community awareness and identity. A participant in the statewide development of the Maine Learning Technology Initiative, and a frequent presenter at national conferences, Steve is now a recognized leader in the field of digital history and community development.

Bromage received his B.A. in English from the University of Richmond (VA) and his Masters in American History from the University of Massachusetts (Amherst), where he focused on 20^th century U.S. cultural history. He has served as a regular grant reviewer for the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the National Endowment for the Humanities, and has served on the board of the Willowbrook Museum Village in Newfield Maine. Before coming to MHS in 2001, Steve served as the Associate Director of the Disability History Museum and Learning Resource Center, a project of Straight Ahead Pictures (a non-profit media and education center in Massachusetts).

"In the past decade," says Steve, "we have seen the vibrant role that Maine history can play in the lives of diverse audiences throughout the state. History is becoming active, participatory, representative, and more integrated into civic life. There are exciting possibilities ahead, and heightened expectations for the role that MHS can play in Maine. I look forward to leading MHS as it continues to grow and evolve, and as we build a dynamic, sustainable foundation for the future."  

Tuesday, April 24, 7pm

Gateways to Portland: Rebuilding Veterans Memorial and Martin's Point Bridges 

Moderator: Sally Oldham  

Speakers: Joyce Taylor, Director, Project Development, Maine Department of Transportation; Patrick Costin, Martin's Point Bridge Advisory Committee; Theo Holtwijk, Director of Long Range Planning, Falmouth

The bridges that connect Portland to the interstate and surrounding communities are critical thoroughfares, gateways to the city, and a defining characteristic of its landscape. Two of Portland's most important and heavily trafficked bridges are currently or will soon be rebuilt. Hear from stakeholders about the issues that affect planning, and how the design of a bridge shapes the landscape and heralds entry into a city. In partnership with Greater Portland Landmarks.