Meet the Team

Katherine Switala Elmhurst serves as Acting Executive Director of the Belknap Mill in a volunteer capacity, bringing more than 25 years of experience in historic preservation, building construction, and building performance. She holds a PhD in Civil Engineering and is a seasoned project manager, educator, and author with a systems-based approach that integrates preservation and sustainability. Katherine has led design and restoration projects at nationally significant sites, specializing in environmental management of historic house museums and archival collections. At Temple University, she guided capital projects through LEED certification, developed experiential learning programs, and helped deliver Philadelphia’s first Petal Certified project under the Living Building Challenge.

Katherine lives in the Lakes Region with her husband and two dogs. Outside of work, she enjoys snowboarding, paddle boarding, hiking, and exploring new places in search of good food and great views.

Denise Kirk brings warm energy, deep community experience, and a maker's eye to the Belknap Mill's programs and events. As Events & Program Manager, she plans and runs public programs, community events, and educational offerings that bring the Mill to life — coordinating logistics, working with local partners and artists, and making sure every visitor leaves with a smile.

Before joining the Belknap Mill, Denise served as Events Manager and Hooksett Gallery Manager at the League of NH Craftsmen, where she produced exhibitions, managed artist relations, and ran large-scale events that connected craft makers with broad audiences. That background gives her a strong mix of event operations, gallery curation, and hands-on collaboration with New Hampshire's creative community.

Denise is also an active maker and visual artist. A New Hampshire native, she studied photography at The Art Institute of Boston, though she's long felt most at home with a camera in her hand. She picked up knitting while spending many hours watching her boys play sports — a practical hobby that also keeps your lap warm in an ice rink! Whether through photographs or knitted pieces, Denise is inspired by bright, fun colors and hopes her work brings a little joy to others.

Friendly, organized, and endlessly curious, Denise is the person you'll see making sure the details are covered and the good times happen at the Mill.

Fabiana McLeod serves as the Digital Marketing Coordinator of the Belknap Mill, where she leads the organization's digital presence and marketing initiatives. With a degree in business management, she specializes in developing strategic campaigns, managing social media platforms, and creating compelling content that drives visibility and engagement. Her expertise lies in blending creativity with analytics to strengthen organizational awareness, grow audiences, and support the Mills events and programs. 

Fabiana received her degree from the University of New Haven, where she was also a lacrosse goalie for 4 years. She now resides in Concord, New Hampshire, with her partner, dog, and cat. When she's not generating content, you can find her camping, traveling, coaching lacrosse, or spending time with friends and family.