Cristoff Shay ends run as Battleship Cove executive vice president

FALL RIVER – Cristoff Shay, executive vice president of Battleship Cove, left the museum Tuesday, continuing a season of change for the institution.

John Casey, a retired captain from the U.S. Navy, will fill in until a replacement can be found, according to a release from the museum.

Casey had been the executive director from 2008 to 2010 before retiring from that position.

“It is with a mix of sadness and gratitude that the board of the directors of the USS Massachusetts Memorial Committee Inc. announce Cristoff Shay’s departure as executive vice president of Battleship Cove,” a press release from the museum stated. “Cristoff has played a critical role in the development and success of the organization with inspired leadership and dedication.”

Shay took over the leadership role in October 2017 when the previous executive director, John McDonagh, took a leave of absence. Prior to that Shay had been the director of marketing and communications.

Carl Sawejko, the president of the board of directors for the past 10 years, also announced he would step down from that position this summer.

During Shay’s time, Sawejko added, the museum redefined its focus, offering an interpretive historical experience for younger visitors. The next challenge for museum leadership will be the preservation of the four steel battleships it has in the water, he said.

“During the next few months, the board will be conducting a search to identify a new executive director,” the press release stated. “During the transition period, Capt. John Casey, former executive director and chief operating officer, will step into the role as interim director to handle daily operations. It is the board’s top priority to find the ideal individual to lead, while still maintaining a stable and effective organization.”

Shay was not available for comment Wednesday.

Email Kevin P. O’Connor at koconnor@heraldnews.com.