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BACK TO SCHOOL EDITION!
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
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Register for the Fall Convening & National Preservation Easement Summit Before Early Bird Prices Fly Away on September 11
SEPTEMBER 24-26, 2026
WASHINGTON, DC
Learn More>
| | Announcing Keynote Speaker Rep. Mike Carey of Ohio | | The National Preservation Partners Network is honored to welcome U.S. Representative Mike Carey of Ohio’s 15th Congressional District and members of his staff for our joint lunch keynote on Friday, September 25th. Congressman Carey is a leading voice in Congress for historic preservation and the responsible use of preservation easements. A member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Vice Chairman of the Congressional Historic Preservation Caucus, Carey has worked to protect the federal incentives that help communities preserve historic buildings and revitalize neighborhoods. This year, he introduced the Historic Preservation and Land Conservation Certainty Act, legislation designed to address the backlog of conservation-easement litigation and strengthen confidence in legitimate preservation and conservation transactions. | | Thank You to Our Event Sponsors: | |
Welcome New NPPN Board Members!
This summer we thanked outgoing Board of Directors members Samantha Bosshart, Danielle Del Sol, Linda Dishman, Erik Hein, Greg Galer, and Suzanne Stannis for their incredible wisdom, leadership, and service -- and welcomed four new members!
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JENNY BUDDENBORG
Executive Director & COO
Preserve Montana
Jenny is a cultural heritage leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and community-centered advocacy at the local, state, and national levels. She currently serves as Executive Director & COO of Preserve Montana, where she leads statewide strategy, fundraising, advocacy, and operations, and founded the Preserve Montana Trades Corps.
Previously, Jenny held leadership roles with the City and County of Denver and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, where she built cross-sector partnerships, led national preservation advocacy campaigns, integrated preservation into city planning policy, and secured major public and private funding. She holds a Master of Arts in Historic Preservation Planning from Cornell University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Wayne State University.
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JOHN DEFFENBAUGH
President & CEO
Historic Denver & the Molly Brown House Museum
John is originally from Glasgow, Scotland, but visited Denver many times growing up to see his aunt, uncle, and grandfather. He attended East High School, graduating in 1997 before moving back to Scotland for college. An architect, urban planner, and construction project manager, John relocated to Denver permanently in 2017 and joined Historic Denver in May 2023 as CEO of the 56-year-old non-profit. John's passion lies where architecture, landscape, and art intersect to create walkable and livable cities, holistically integrating new development within the established and historic contexts.
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LAURA HOUSTON
Director of Revitalization Initiatives Preservation Maryland
As Director of Revitalization Initiatives for Preservation Maryland, Laura oversees the organization's historic property redevelopment program, which makes direct investments in Maryland's historic places through the revitalization of significant historic resources and the communities in which they reside. Her work focuses on transforming historic places into community assets that support economic development, heritage tourism, and long-term preservation.
Laura's professional background is in project management, with experience leading complex initiatives from planning through implementation. Her academic work explored culture as a tool for representation, influence, education, and diplomacy. She holds an M.A. in Cultural Politics and Policy from New York University and a B.A. in International Studies from Texas State University.
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JOHN SHERRER
Director of Preservation
Historic Columbia
A Columbia native, author, and historian, John has worked at Historic Columbia since 1996. As Director of Preservation, he heads the organization’s historic preservation advocacy efforts involving related research and programming, management of a 15-property easement portfolio, and historic tax credit fee-for-service projects. John holds degrees from Clemson University (BA, MA: English) and the University of South Carolina (MA: Public History) and currently serves on the City of Columbia’s Historic Preservation Design Review Commission and the Elmwood Park Neighborhood Association board. Past service included board positions with the Columbia Development Corporation, the Columbia Design League, and the South Carolina Federation of Museums. John is a Leadership Columbia Class of 2014 alumna and a 2023 Ambassador for ExperienceColumbiaSC.
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Member Organization Survey Results Are In!
Thank you to all who contributed to our biennial NPPN Member Organization Survey. This survey helps us and you keep our fingers on the pulse of what's happening across the preservation field, including statistics on salary and benefits, trends in program areas and expertise, policies, and more. The results may surprise you!
| | | | The Network has had some big transitions over the last few months! As we head into a new season, we want to shower thanks and praise onto three long-time leaders in preservation and National Preservation Partners Network members who are moving on to new exciting ventures. Bonnie, Cindy, and Suzanne have each made tremendous contributions to the preservation field, and we will all continue to benefit from the impacts of their leadership. | | | |
Bonnie McDonald
Congratulations to Bonnie McDonald, former NPPN Board Chair and longtime President & CEO of Landmarks Illinois, on being selected for a 2027 Loeb Fellowship by the Harvard Graduate School of Design (HGSD). This prestigious recognition means that Bonnie is leaving Landmarks Illinois and trading Chicago, IL for Cambridge, MA for the coming year.
During her 14-year tenure at Landmarks Illinois, she transformed the organization and the national preservation field – shifting the focus from the bricks and mortar of historic places to people and their connections to our built environment. Her work aims to advance building reuse as a systems-level response to climate change, housing, public health and spatial injustice, as detailed in her 2023 publication, “The Relevancy Guidebook: How We Can Transform the Future of Preservation.”
McDonald’s influential work will continue through the Loeb Fellowship. We wish Bonnie well as she heads back to school!
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Cindy Heitzman
After 22 years at the helm of the California Preservation Foundation, Cindy Heitzman retired this summer, leaving behind a legacy that has reshaped historic preservation across the state, having led CPF's expanded statewide reach and strengthened education and advocacy programs. Under her guidance, CPF launched Underrecognized California, an initiative helping document and elevate historic places and stories long left out of the official record. From championing California's first historic tax credit legislation to mentoring countless preservation professionals, Cindy's fingerprints are on the field itself. The National Preservation Partners Network joins CPF and preservationists statewide in celebrating her extraordinary career and thanking her for decades of tireless advocacy for California's cultural heritage.
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Suzanne Stannis
Suzanne Stanis retired from Indiana Landmarks in May, capping nearly 41 years of dedicated service to historic preservation in Indiana. After joining the organization in 1985, she rose to Vice President of Heritage Education, researching and nominating more than fifteen buildings and neighborhoods to the National Register of Historic Places while building the organization's education programs from the ground up—workshops, children's camps, and heritage tourism at sites like West Baden Springs and Samara. A longtime member of the National Preservation Partners Network board, Suzanne has spent four decades teaching Hoosiers to see the history in the buildings around them and inspiring the next generation to save it. We congratulate her on a truly remarkable career and thank her for her generous, lasting contributions to the preservation field.
| | | Join Us for Upcoming Webinars | |
SEPTEMBER
PRACTICAL PRESERVATION
FUNDRAISING 101:
ENGINEERING THE ENVIRONMENT FOR PHILANTHROPY TO THRIVE
Wednesday, September 30th, 1:00-2:30pm ET
With: Rob Bull, President & CEO, The Compass Group
Strong fundraising programs are not built by chasing the next big gift or relying on one-off wins. They are built by putting the right elements in place and strengthening them over time. Through more than 30 years of work with nonprofits across the country, The Compass Group has identified four predictive indicators that consistently distinguish organizations positioned to raise more money and maintain momentum. Together, they offer a practical way to understand what drives results and make fundraising easier.
Join Compass President and CEO Rob Bull for an interactive webinar introducing a clear framework for long-term success. Participants will explore the four indicators, see how they reinforce one another, and gain actionable guidance for sharpening strategy, building capacity, and using limited time and resources more effectively.
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OCTOBER
PRESERVATION FOR ALL ROUNDTABLE
WORKING WITH AFRICAN AMERICAN PRESERVATION ORGANIZATIONS AND PLACES
Wednesday, October 28th, 1:00-2:30pm ET
With: Tiffany Tolbert, Co-Director, African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is a national initiative of the National Trust for Historic Preservation dedicated to preserving and celebrating African American history and culture through the protection of historic places. This webinar will introduce you to the Action Fund’s resources, programs, and approaches for strengthening partnerships and supporting African American historic sites. Participants will gain practical insights into how they can incorporate African American cultural heritage into their preservation work.
| | | Preservation News & Events | |
The Latest on How to Save Section 106
Every day there is more to process regarding the proposed changes to Section 106 regulations. The National Preservation Partners Network will keep the network informed on the latest news and points for action.
Read National Preservation Partners Network's Full Position Statement on the historic threats facing Section 106>
ACT NOW
- Join the 700+ signatures strong National Coalition to Protect Section 106 by signing on to the open letter. Help reach the goal of 1,000 signatures. Learn more and sign on>
- Share Section 106 Success stories that demonstrate the importance of public input and review with our national partners to help with advocacy efforts. Submit your stories now>
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Attend the joint NPPN Fall Convening/National Preservation Summit Advocacy Day. On September 24th, 2026, a wave of preservationists will be making their voices heard on Capitol Hill. Join us!>
RESOURCES
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Nominations Open: America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places
Do you know an important place in your community that could benefit from national advocacy and attention? The National Trust for Historic Preservation is now accepting nominations for the 2027 list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places.
Apply by October 1>
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NATIONAL TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION FORUM WEBINAR
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE:
KEY PRESERVATION PRIORITIES ON THE HILL
September 17, 2:00-3:00 p.m. ET
Join the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Government Relations team for a legislative update for those interested in the current state of preservation policy in Washington, D.C.
Attendees will get an overview of where key preservation priorities stand, what to expect in the coming months, and how advocates can make the greatest impact.
The panelists will discuss the current legislative landscape, advocacy priorities, and key information to help participants communicate effectively with members of Congress and stay engaged in federal preservation advocacy.
- Pam Bowman, Senior Director of Government Relations
- Lauren Cohen, Director of Government Relations
- Shaw Sprague, Vice President for Government Relations
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PRESERVATION ACTION FOUNDATION
AUCTION & HAPPY HOUR
September 23, 4:30-6:30 p.m. ET
Support the critical work of the Preservation Action Foundation at its annual auction & happy hour. It will take place immediately following Wednesday’s National Preservation Summit programming in the National Cathedral’s Perry Auditorium (7th floor). Food and drink in hand, explore an exciting lineup of auction items including exclusive tours and experiences, travel packages, educational opportunities, and one-of-a-kind gifts. NPPN's own Kim Trent and Brent Runyon will be your emcees for what promises to be an evening of fun!
Every bid supports Preservation Action Foundation’s work to expand grassroots preservation advocacy through education and outreach.
Reserve your spot today! NPPN members can receive $15 off of ticket prices using promo code PRESPARTNER.
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NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF PRESERVATION COMMISSIONS
WEBINAR SERIES
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT IN DISASTER PLANNING AND RECOVERY
September 15, 1:00 p.m. ET
In recognition of National Preparedness Month, this webinar will explore practical approaches to public engagement that can help communities prepare for and respond to a wide range of disasters. Participants will learn how to identify the right partners and stakeholders, explore a variety of ways to inform and engage the public, educate key decision-makers, and use public awareness as a powerful tool for disaster preparedness and recovery. Drawing on their experience working with communities affected by flooding and wildfires, the presenters will share real-world examples and strategies that can be adapted to different hazards and the unique needs and priorities of communities around the country.
Presenters:
Melissa Wylie, CEO & President, Florida Trust for Historic Preservation
Adrian Scott Fine, President & CEO, Los Angeles Conservancy
This webinar is free for NAPC members and open to the general public for a $15 admission fee.
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THE NATIONAL PRESERVATION SUMMIT
September 22-24, 2026
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Washington, DC & Virtual
FREE
Join the conversations shaping the future of preservation at the National Preservation Summit, September 22-23. The online event is complimentary, making it easy to participate from anywhere and add your voice to this important national dialogue. Leaders will gather virtually and at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. (in-person registration is closed).
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The 1772 Foundation &
National Preservation Partners Network
HISTORIC PROPERTIES REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS (HPRP) GRANTS
The National Preservation Partners Network (NPPN), in partnership with The 1772 Foundation, is pleased to announce the opening of the 2027 round of grant funding for Historic Properties Redevelopment Programs (HPRP). Nonprofit organizations operating or seeking to start a Historic Properties Redevelopment Program (a.k.a Revolving Fund) in the United States are encouraged to submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) to apply for funding by September 18, 2026.
Learn more and apply>
National Trust for Historic Preservation
THE MOE FAMILY FUND FOR STATEWIDE AND LOCAL PARTNERS
The Moe Family Fund for Statewide and Local Partners supports current dues-paying members of the National Preservation Partners Network (NPPN) with grants focused on strengthening preservation organizations and addressing pressing issues in the preservation field. This year, grant-funded projects will fall in one of three categories:
- Advocacy
- Capacity Building
- Climate Change
Applications are due October 15, 2026.
Learn more and apply>
PRESERVING BLACK CHURCHES (PBC)
Applications for Preserving Black Churches (PBC) grants, a cornerstone initiative of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation, are now open! As the oldest institutions created and controlled by African Americans, historically Black churches are a living testament to the achievements and resiliency of generations of American families and communities. To preserve and uplift these historic places and the neighborhoods they serve, the Preserving Black Churches grant program provides funding ranging from $50,000 to $500,000.
Applications will close on September 11, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET.
Learn more and apply>
THE PETER H. BRINK LEADERSHIP FUND
Have you heard from a colleague about a program that you'd like to implement? Would you like to visit their community to learn more? There's a fund for that!
The Peter H. Brink Leadership Fund helps to build the capacity of existing preservation organizations and encourages collaboration among these organizations by providing grants for mentoring and other peer-to-peer and direct organizational development and learning opportunities. The purpose of these grants is to support the leadership and effectiveness of staff and board members of preservation organizations to fulfill their mission and to create a stronger, more effective preservation movement. By linking organizations with specific skills/programs to those seeking to develop similar abilities, the fund promotes individualized mentoring and the sharing of expertise. Valuable lessons can be learned from someone who has successfully navigated the same situation that an organization currently faces. Grants support travel costs and mentor honoraria with a maximum reimbursement of $2,500. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Learn more and apply>
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Check out the National Preservation Partners Network Job Board for the latest job openings in preservation — and send us postings for jobs at your organization! Job openings are posted on the Preservation Partners website at no cost for members.
CURRENT HIGHLIGHTS
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Looking for Advice? Need a Dose of Inspiration?
Join an Affinity Group!
With your National Preservation Partners Network membership, you — and all of your organization's staff and board members — are welcome to participate in NPPN's Affinity Groups. The groups meet via Zoom and provide an opportunity for colleagues with common interests to have conversations, share information, and learn from trusted colleagues. This year we added new Affinity Groups for Communicators, Preservation Easements, and Historic Properties Redevelopment Programs (HPRP). Along with our existing groups, there truly is something for everyone. If you're interested in joining one of the groups but don't have the Zoom link, just email us and let us know which group you'd like to join.
UPCOMING AFFINITY GROUP MEETINGS
- Statewide - September 10, 3:30pm ET (Quarterly - 2nd Thursday)
- Consultants - September 15, 3:30pm ET (Quarterly - 3rd Tuesday)
- Big Cities - September 17, 3:00pm ET (Monthly - 3rd Thursday)
- HPRP - October 8, 1:30pm ET (Bimonthly - 2nd Thursday)
- Development - October 8, 3:30pm ET (Quarterly - 2nd Thursday)
- Easements - October 13, 4:00pm ET (Quarterly - 2nd Tuesday)
- Big Cities - October 15, 3:00pm ET (Monthly - 3rd Thursday)
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Is it time to renew your NPPN membership?
Contact Juliana Glassco for more information or to check your organization's NPPN membership status. Know an organization that would benefit from being a member? Let us know!
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Are you taking advantage of your member benefits?
NPPN MEMBERS FORUM ONLINE
Members are invited to join the NPPN Members Forum hosted by Google Groups. The Forum is where you can learn from, collaborate and communicate with colleagues across the country. To join, visit the Member Forum webpage and click the "Ask to join group" button at the top of the page. Or send an email request to NPPN's Executive Director. Learn more about how to use Google Groups >
HISTORIC PROPERTIES REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS ONLINE GROUP
Members are invited to join NPPN's Historic Properties Redevelopment Programs Online Discussion Group hosted by Google Groups. The HPRP Discussion Group is where you can learn from, collaborate and communicate with colleagues across the country operating revolving funds. To join, visit the Member Forum webpage and click the "Ask to join group" button at the top of the page. Or send an email request to NPPN's Executive Director. Learn more about how to use Google Groups >
PRESERVATION EASEMENT ORGANIZATIONS ONLINE DISCUSSION GROUP
Members are invited to join NPPN's Preservation Easement Organizations Online Discussion Group hosted by Google Groups. The online discussion group is where you can learn from, collaborate and communicate with colleagues across the country who manage preservation easement programs. To join, visit the Member Forum webpage and click the "Ask to join group" button at the top of the page. Or send an email request to NPPN's Executive Director. Learn more about how to use Google Groups >
NPPN MEMBERS ONLINE COMMUNITY
The members-only section NPPN's website contains information on grants, preservation events, a resource library, sample policies, and more. To access it, visit NPPN's website and click on "Member Login" in the upper right corner of the page. If you have already been added to the list of members with access, you will be prompted to update your password to log in. If you don't see that prompt, please email us to be added to the list of members with access.
FREE PRESERVATION ADVOCACY INFOGRAPHICS
The Preservation Priorities Task Force Infographics offer an easy way to promote historic preservation as a solution to the urgent issues of affordable housing, climate action, racial justice, and workforce development. Developed by preservationists across the country, the infographics are available for FREE to anyone who wants to convey how preservation plays a key role in addressing these issues. Learn more and download the infographics >
MEMBER BADGE
Display your membership proudly on your website, in your newsletter and beyond with this badge, which you can also find on our "Our Members" page.
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS & PARTNERS! | | | | |
