NATCHEZ &8212; The Natchez National Historical Park will soon have a permanent superintendent.

Kathleen Jenkins, acting superintendent since October 2005, was offered the job and accepted Tuesday.

Jenkins said she was not expecting the offer but was hoping for it.

She has been at the park 13 years and has been through five job titles in that time, she said.

The biggest difference between acting and superintendent is her new job title allows her to have a more permanent impact on the park, she said.

Jenkins is planning to make some hiring changes and shift personnel, she said.

The park has changed in the past few years, adding sites, but the personnel are stretched thin, she said.

&8220;I&8217;m also looking forward to working with the community, developing and strengthening community partnerships with other entities,&8221; Jenkins said. &8220;I&8217;m excited to be in a position to make things happen.&8221;

Jenkins was working as the natural and cultural resources director as well as interim superintendent, she said.

&8220;It&8217;s been a challenge juggling two jobs,&8221; Jenkins said. &8220;I&8217;m looking forward to putting all my energy toward one job.&8221;

Jenkins will take her new title within the next few weeks, she said.

The National Park Service oversees Melrose and its grounds and the William Johnson House.