ASHLAND – For the past 12 years, Chris Box’s name has been almost synonymous with the Ashland County Historical Society.
So when she told people she was leaving the museum, Box said, many found it hard to believe.
“But when I told them where I was going, their faces would light up,” Box said. “Those who know me and know my personality know it’s a good fit.”
Box recently was named the new executive director at Associated Charities. She replaced Rosemarie Donley, who retired at the end of March.
With just one month under her belt, Box is already enjoying her new role, both because it’s a challenge and a change of pace and because it allows her to help people.
“Fun isn’t the right word, but it is heartwarming,” Box said.
Box has always been drawn to help others and to give back to the community. She’s also the kind of person that draw energy from being with other people, whether that’s clients donors, staff or volunteers.
“This job is giving back to the community and helping those in need, and I have a heart for that,” Box said. “I like people. I guess you could say I’ve never met a stranger.”
An Ashland High School graduate, Box got her start in business through the Cooperative Office Education program at Ashland High School. She credits much of her early career success to her teacher and mentor, Martha Pendleton, who has become a lifelong friend.
After high school, Box was hired as a bookkeeper at Bank One and worked her way up to teller and then to customer service representative.
Box later worked 16 years as business manager at the Ashland YMCA before taking the job at the historical society.
She believes the skills and relationships she has developed over the years are transferable to her new role.
Board president Brett Mesenburg agrees.
“Chris possesses a lot of skills that allow her to pick up where Rosemarie left off,” he said. “She has the non-profit experience. She has relationships with people in the community.”
Another thing Box brings to the job is her Labradoodle, Theodore.
Box considers Theo an extension of herself and has brought him to work each day for years.
Though Theo was beloved at the historical society, his role at Associated Charities is even more important.
A certified therapy dog, Theo puts people at ease with his calm demeanor.
“I think he’s been a welcome addition,” Box said, adding his presence makes potentially intimidating situations more tolerable for clients who come to Associated Charities for assistance with things like food, clothing, rent and utilities.
Box lives in Ashland with her husband, Tony. The pair have a daughter, Sydney, who is 20.
