The RV/MH Hall of Fame has named Daryll Milnikel as its president following the departure of Darryl Searer, who retired after leading the way since 2012.
Milnikel was in the U.S. Marine Corps involved in recruitment, human resources, transportation, and security operations. He was in combat deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In the private sector, he led product design and portfolio management initiatives for commercial and group insurance carriers, including G.E.H.A. and Humana.
He also held business management roles supporting government insurance programs with WPS.
“Our objectives are to preserve the histories of two industries that have had meaningful impacts on the lives of families throughout North America, recognize its leaders and innovators, and educate and entertain the public,” Hall of Fame Executive Vice President Ryan Szklarek said. “Our team looks forward to the continued work with Daryll on the improvement of all phases of our operations.”
After the Marines, Milnikel spent years in corporate and private insurance on the payer side running operations, change management, product design, development, and management.
“I’ve held leadership positions that required working with boards — both in the military and corporate sectors — often balancing governance, budget, and strategy discussions,” he said. “On the events side, my roles have included managing large-scale internal functions, public programs, and stakeholder summits.”
Milnikel grew up in the “Michiana” area and had heard about the hall and event center, but had not been there to see for himself until he met with board members about the leadership position.
“I was struck by how much history is packed under one roof. It’s a space that blends nostalgia with real innovation — and I walked away with a deeper appreciation for how RVs and manufactured homes shaped American travel and lifestyle,” Milnikel said. “It was an overwhelming feeling of wanting to be part of an organization like this and help champion the stories of these industries.”
Board Chairman Joe Stegmayer said the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum is in the strongest position in its 53-year history.
“As we enter the next era of growth, Daryll brings the skills and experience that will assure sound guidance for continued mission progress and development,” Stegmayer said.
Milnikel said he has deep respect for the manufactured housing industry, providing vital housing solutions to millions.
“It often is underrepresented in conversations about innovation and impact,”Milnikel said. “At the hall, part of our responsibility is to elevate and preserve that legacy alongside RVs — and I’m committed to doing that intentionally and inclusively.”
The event center is a key piece of the organization’s sustainability model, he said, and he already is actively involved in planning and executing community and industry events.
“It is still early, but I’m certainly focused on refining our internal operations, expanding our community and industry reach, and increasing engagement with both sectors we represent,” he said. “You’ll see some changes in marketing, technology integration, story telling through our museum exhibits and event programming as we move forward — all with the goal of ensuring our hall stays relevant, well-resourced, and mission-driven.”
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