Local Preservation Leaders Gain National Recognition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 27, 2020
Victoria Futrell | 216.544.0837 | vfutrell@preservationsociety.org

Preservation Society of Charleston Executive Director and Board Chair Appointed to National Preservation Leadership Teams

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA – Entering it’s second century of tireless advocacy work on behalf of the citizens of Charleston, the Preservation Society of Charleston is pleased to announce its Executive Director and Board Chair have been appointed to serve initial terms on national historic preservation leadership teams.

Preservation Society of Charleston Board Chair, Elizabeth (Betsy) Kirkland Cahill, has been appointed to the National Trust for Historic Preservation Board of Trustees to serve an initial term from 2020-2023. The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately-funded nonprofit organization that works to save America’s historic places for the next generation. The Trust is committed to protecting America’s rich cultural legacy and to helping build vibrant, sustainable communities that reflect our nation’s diversity. They take direct action to save the places that matter while bringing the voices of the preservation movement to the forefront nationally. The National Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees that provides the organization with counsel, guidance, and leadership.

“We are delighted that Betsy Cahill has joined the board of the National Trust,” said President and CEO Paul Edmondson.  “Her leadership has helped the preservation movement in Charleston take on complex issues of urban authenticity, resilience, and livability.  Her experience and her longstanding commitment to the value of historic preservation will help guide the Trust through the challenges facing preservation in the 21st century.”

Preservation Society of Charleston Executive Director, Kristopher B. King, has been appointed by the President of the United States to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) to serve a four year term from 2020-2024. ACHP Chairman Aimee Jorjani said, “Kristopher is an impassioned advocate for historic preservation within one of the nation’s most historically significant architectural gems. We look forward to him bringing that same passion from South Carolina to the national stage as an expert member of the ACHP. He has a lifetime of knowledge in many aspects of historic preservation, including development, as well as educating the next generation of preservationists, which will contribute greatly to the ACHP’s mission.”

As an influencer of public policy in Charleston, SC, Mr. King has seen firsthand the long-term community value created by thoughtful, preservation-minded decisions, as well as the negative effects that growth can have on historic resources and communities. He hopes to bring his practical, real-world experience in development and preservation to support the critically important work of the ACHP and that he can help spur enhanced engagement with federal agencies, focusing on how the work of preservation can better serve the people and communities that need support. Mr. King hopes that his experience and commitment to Charleston can help advance the work of preservation benefits on a national level.

About the Preservation Society of Charleston:
Founded in 1920, the Preservation Society of Charleston (PSC) is the oldest grassroots preservation organization in the nation. The PSC is stronger than ever as it enters its second century of serving as a strong advocacy leader for citizens concerned about preserving Charleston’s distinctive character, quality of life, and diverse neighborhoods.

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