David Kelliher

As the Vice President of Public Policy & Government Relations, David Kelliher works in conjunction with Minnesota’s state, federal, and local government leaders, building relationships and advocating for support for the Minnesota Historical Society and history across the state.

David represents the MNHS on various boards and commissions, including the Mississippi River Parkway Commission, the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Board, the Fort Snelling Joint Powers Board and the Scenic Byways Commission, and is a member of the MN Council of Nonprofits’ Public Policy Cabinet.  

David played a key role in the passage of the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment in 2008, which supports efforts to preserve Minnesota land, water and legacy, including Minnesota history and cultural heritage. MNHS administers Legacy funds to support historical efforts in all of Minnesota’s 87 counties.

David began his work in public history as a project historian for the National Park Service’s Historic American Building Survey in Illinois and began with the Minnesota Historical Society as a tour guide on the Minneapolis Riverfront / St. Anthony Falls. He holds a B.A. in History from Carleton College.