Andrew Jackson Hermitage CEO Howard Kittell to retire. Search to begin for successor
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Andrew Jackson Foundation President and CEO Howard Kittell has announced his retirement plans, triggering the search for a successor, the organization said Wednesday.
Kittell, 73, has overseen Andrew Jackson's Hermitage in eastern Davidson County for more than a decade. He will celebrate 15 years in the position this November, officials said, noting that Kittell plans to continue serving in his current role until the Andrew Jackson Foundation's executive search committee identifies and selects a successor, which is expected next spring.
Kittell came on board in late 2008, "charged to do a turnaround, and we turned around," he said.
Andrew Jackson's Hermitage is a 1,120-acre National Historic Landmark that was once home to the controversial seventh president of the United States and military leader.
“His dedication and commitment to the mission and grounds of The Hermitage are evident through the evolution and success of the organization over the past 15 years," said Andrew Jackson Foundation Regent John L. Nau III. "We will miss his guiding hand as we move forward with the many plans he has put in place."
According to a news release from the Andrew Jackson Foundation, during Kittell's tenure, The Hermitage:
Saw an increase in attendance by 119% with about 230,000 visitors per year.
Worked with state and local governments to gain public funding and the transfer of 460 acres of state-owned land that was once part of Andrew Jackson's estate.
Increased financial stability, development, and advanced technology and infrastructure with exhibits and media.
The Hermitage gained attention during the presidency of Donald Trump, who openly admired Jackson and visited the site in 2017. Kittell referred to the interest and attention as "the Trump bump."
COVID-19 forced closures and reduced hours for the landmark, but since the pandemic's end, Kittell described The Hermitage as "back to a healthy position again."
"I think its time for me to think about other things for a while," Kittell said. "I think The Hermitage will benefit from a new vision."
Kittell is expected to speak at 2 p.m., Friday during the Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution dedication of an America 250 Patriots Marker at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage.
The dedication is part of a DAR effort leading up to the United States 250th anniversary in 2026, educating the public about the people and places significant to the country's independence.
Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Andrew Jackson Foundation CEO to retire, search underway for successor
