The Friends Of The Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Announce Retirement Of Executive Director

WILTON — Porto has been with the organization for almost 5 years, after 14 years as Director of Parks and Recreation at Gavin Park in Wilton. 

Porto oversaw the renovation of the site Visitor Center and expansion of the gift shop, pursued partnerships with state and local officials and businesses and NYS Parks, fostered the historic site’s brand, and led successful Grant bicentennial celebrations. He assisted the National Historic Landmark on the path to a new Strategic Plan and the long-term goal of construction of an Education Pavilion on the summit to carry out their mission of bringing the compelling story of Ulysses S. Grant to a wider audience.

Porto will stay on with Grant Cottage to work on special projects. He is succeeded by Beth J. Merrill, a seasoned non-profit and museum specialist.