#United States #Washington #Historic Preservation #National Trust #Brent Leggs

Brent Leggs Appointed as President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation

In an important transitional phase for historic preservation, Brent Leggs has been elected as the 11th President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This unanimous decision by the Board of Trustees, made on June 22, 2026, marks a significant milestone not just for Leggs but for the preservation community across the nation.

Leggs previously served as the executive director of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund (Action Fund), a division he launched in 2017. During his leadership, he successfully raised over $200 million which has been critical in preserving historic sites throughout the country. His extensive background in heritage and cultural preservation spans more than two decades and includes a variety of roles within the National Trust, starting as a graduate intern.

Phoebe Tudor, the chair of the National Trust’s Board of Trustees, praised Leggs for his visionary leadership and significant contributions to the understanding and practice of historic preservation. She emphasized how his experience would bring a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about how to honor and engage diverse histories in America.

As Leggs takes on this role at a time when the nation is increasingly aware of its historical narratives, he expressed his commitment to ensuring that every American can see themselves reflected in the cultural landscape. He remarked, “Our work is not only about safeguarding important places but ensuring that every American can see themselves reflected in our shared cultural landscape.” Leggs also acknowledged the positive influence of his predecessor, Carol Quillen, who raised the organization’s visibility and shifted public perception of preservation.

Leggs’ vision for the National Trust includes a commitment to innovation and increasing public engagement with historic preservation. He aims to elevate the importance of preserving places that represent the totality of the American experience, which not only preserves history but also supports environmental sustainability and economic development within communities.

Darren Walker, co-chair of the National Advisory Council of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, expressed his enthusiasm for Leggs’ new leadership role, noting his success in building a powerful team and impactful initiatives at the Action Fund. Leggs’ transition to the National Trust is expected to bolster efforts to engage communities and enhance the organization’s mission.

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund will continue under the National Trust umbrella, focusing on preserving Black American heritage with guidance from the current leadership of the Action Fund.

Brent Leggs’ leadership not only comes at a crucial time for the National Trust but also coincides with a broader movement to reflect on the narratives we as a society choose to honor and commemorate. As the organization moves forward, the opportunity to reshape historic preservation into a more inclusive and resilient framework will be essential in fostering a richer understanding of American history. This transformation could potentially reshape how future generations engage with their heritage and contribute to a more unified national identity at a time of profound change and dialogue. Leggs’ leadership will be pivotal in cultivating the trust and partnerships necessary for sustainable progress in historic preservation efforts across the nation.

With his depth of experience and clear vision, Brent Leggs appears poised to take the National Trust for Historic Preservation into a dynamic future, instilling hope that the importance of preserving history as a means to support contemporary and future community narratives can achieve a lasting impact.