IDELSON RETIRES

AT HALL OF FAME

He’ll Serve Through Induction 2019

COOPERSTOWN –  Jeff Idelson will retire as Baseball Hall of Fame president after the July 21 induction, board Chairman Jane Forbes Clark announced a few minutes ago.

“I am heartbroken for the Museum and its staff, but thrilled for Jeff,” Clark said. “Over his 11-year tenure as President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Jeff’s leadership and passion have guided this institution to great successes. We could not be more thankful for his commitment to the Hall of Fame over the last quarter-century.”

The Hall of Fame’s Board of Directors has established a committee, headed by Clark and including Idelson, which will identify the Museum’s next President and assure a smooth transition.

“I’ve had an extraordinary 25-year run in Cooperstown and have been witness to some indelible moments in baseball history,” Idelson said. “I have loved working alongside a dedicated and talented Hall of Fame staff, and being a part of the Hall of Fame family.

“I will forever be grateful for the incredible opportunity I’ve had to be a part of something very special at the Hall of Fame, and for the tremendous and lasting friendships I’ve made along the way.” Idelson continued. “I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed raising two wonderful children in idyllic Cooperstown.”

Idelson, 54, was named President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum on April 16, 2008. He served as vice president of communications and education for the Museum from June 1999 through March 2008, when he was named Acting President. He joined the Museum on Sept. 26, 1994 as director of public relations and promotions.

A West Newton, Mass., native and a 1986 graduate of Connecticut College in New London, Conn., Idelson began his professional career with the Boston Red Sox in 1986, then spent five years as director of media relations and publicity for the New York Yankees from 1989-1993.

Idelson became the sixth president in the 80-year history of the organization. Past presidents include: Stephen C. Clark, Sr., founder of the Hall of Fame and grandfather of current Chairman, Jane Forbes Clark; Paul Kerr; Edward W. Stack; Donald C. Marr Jr.; and Dale A. Petroskey.