Meet Kurt Begalka, the Des Plaines History Center’s new executive director

The Des Plaines History Center will host its March Coffee Talk program from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, featuring a meet-and-greet event with Kurt Begalka, the new executive director of the History Center.

This drop-in program will give Des Plaines residents the chance to meet the History Center’s new leader, who took over from Philip Mohr in January 2024. Begalka will share details about his background and previous experiences, and visitors will have the chance to ask questions and learn more about him and his plans for the History Center going forward. Light refreshments will be served, and visitors are welcome to stop by whenever is most convenient.

“I’ve been in town less than two months and I’m already feeling at home,” Begalka said. “Everyone has been very welcoming and eager to connect on community projects moving forward. I have some thoughts, but I would love to hear what others are thinking. Collaboration, after all, is key.”

All members of the public are welcome to attend the meet-and-greet with the new executive director.

This program is free thanks to generous sponsors: Village Bank & Trust and Kiwanis Club of Des Plaines.

Registration is required to attend this month’s meet-and-greet event and for all Coffee Talks moving forward. To register, call (847) 391-5399 or email contact@desplaineshistory.org. Any day-of availability will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

The History Center’s Coffee Talks are a series of adult programs meant to invite public participation and discussion on a broad range of historical topics per the History Center’s mission. Donations are appreciated.

The next Coffee Talk will be “Unvarnished: Housing Discrimination in the Northern and Western U.S.” on May 9.