AUBURN, ME – As the Woman’s Literary Union of Androscoggin County (WLU) begins an exciting new chapter, its Board of Trustees is placing a strong emphasis on the preservation, responsible stewardship, financial viability, and long term sustainability of Auburn’s historic Foss Mansion.

The WLU leadership officers also serve as members of the Board of Trustees, bringing organizational leadership and property stewardship together as the WLU plans for the future of the Mansion.

The Board is chaired by Stephanie Hlister-Croteau, with trustees Robin Allen, Ruth Hall, Angela Lupardo, and Tracie MacLeod, together with WLU officers Stefanie Mahr Damien, President; Rhonda Ferrara, Vice President; Claudette Cyr, Secretary; and Angela Saltis, Treasurer.

Preserving a historic property requires more than responding to repairs as they arise. The Board is focused on identifying and prioritizing  immediate and long-term preservation and capital needs, evaluating responsible improvements, and developing the financial resources necessary to properly care for the Mansion well into the future.

A major part of that effort will be ensuring that the Foss Mansion is financially sustainable. Thoughtful use of the property, hosted events and rentals, fundraising initiatives, membership growth, donations, grants, and community partnerships can all play an important role in creating dependable support for preservation.

Stewardship for the Next Generation

The Foss Mansion is more than the home of the Woman’s Literary Union—it is an important part of Auburn’s history. Protecting that legacy requires careful planning today for the needs of tomorrow.

Working together, the Board of Trustees, committees, members, volunteers, and community supporters are committed to developing a responsible path forward that respects the Mansion’s historic character while strengthening its financial foundation.

Community members who value local history and historic preservation are encouraged to become involved. Opportunities include WLU membership, volunteering, participating in events, supporting fundraising efforts, sharing professional expertise or community connections, and making a financial contribution toward preservation and capital projects.

Every contribution—whether time, resources, or financial support—can help ensure that the Foss Mansion remains an important part of the Auburn community for generations to come.

Leadership team, Rhonda Ferrara, vice president; Stefanie Mahr Damien, president; Claudette Cyr, secretary; Angela Saltis, treasurer

Board of Trustees: Bottom row: Angela Lupardo, Robin Allen, Ruth Mary Hall

Top row: Rhonda Ferrara Stefanie Mahr Damien, Angela Saltis, Claudette Cyr

Not pictured: Stephanie Hlister Croteau, Tracie Macleod