Long-time Noblesville resident Emily Reynolds will serve as the new director of the Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad (NPHRR), operator of the Nickel Plate Express which runs on 12.5 miles of track between Noblesville and Atlanta.
The NPHRR Board of Directors said they chose Reynolds because of her varied skill sets, passion for non-profit management, experience, and knowledge of the community.
Reynolds brings over a decade of experience as a trusted leader in the nonprofit industry. In her previous role as Director of Outreach for Servants at Work, she was instrumental in growing the volunteer program, implementing the strategic plan, engaging new audiences through social media, and expanding their fundraising efforts.
Reynolds
“I remember seeing a train coming through town as a child and the magic it held,” Reynolds said. “This is an opportunity to support the preservation of history in Hamilton County while also bringing families together for a truly unique experience.”
Reynolds assumes the role at a strategic point in the railroad’s growth. This summer, it will move operations to a new welcome station in Forest Park that the City of Noblesville and Noblesville Parks Department are developing. The 1950s historic train will depart from a covered platform boarding and provide significantly improved visitor amenities.
“We are excited about this next step in our development and think Emily is the perfect leader to help us grow again,” said NPHRR Board Treasurer Toni Dickover. “With our strong history, her background and knowledge, a passionate staff and volunteer pool, and our partners at the city and county, we are excited about what the coming years bring.”
The Nickel Plate Express is a program of the Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad, a charitable nonprofit that operates the historic Arcadia Depot and offers entertainment and educational excursions on historic train equipment out of Forest Park. The 12.5 miles of Nickel Plate Track is owned by the Hoosier Heritage Port Authority.
Emily, I have experience on the Polar Express train as Mrs. Claus, reader/song leader etc. And I would
LOVE to get back to playing Mrs Claus this year. Could you tell how to make that happen? Thank you.