NORWICH – After two weeks on the job, the new director of the Northeast Classic Car Museum says she is still learning. However, she has many ideas about the direction she would like the organization to go in.

Norwich native Doreen Bates was named the new director March 17, succeeding long-time Director Kay Zaia, who has retired from the top spot but will continue to work with the museum.

“I am very excited to be a part of such a wonderful place,” said Bates.

The new director has a 10-year background in the director’s chair as head of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) through Opportunities for Chenango.

Through her work at RSVP, Bates explains she built strong relationships with the numerous volunteers and saw the program develop from the ground up.

“Being able to work with some of the volunteers from my last position is an added bonus,” she said. “You really do get attached to people.”

Bates said volunteers are an asset to the Rexford Street museum. Many of them work various shifts throughout the day to keep the museum operating seven days a week. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to function as we do,” she said.