David Hakensen, principal with Corcoran, Minnesota-based strategic communications firm H Co., is in his final year as president of the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) Executive Council. A board member since 2012, Hakensen is a passionate leader and promoter of Minnesota history. When he took on the president role in 2019, the MNHS site Historic Fort Snelling was fielding concerns about a possible name change, and he helped guide the organization through a public process seeking input. Hakensen also provided direction on the St. Paul organization’s new strategic plan and helped refresh its mission, vision, and values statement, receive accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, and unveil a revitalized Fort Snelling site. “Strengthening board culture and effectiveness has been a top priority during his final term as president,” says MNHS director and CEO Kent Whitworth.