Erin Kelly
Plymouth, MA – Preservation Massachusetts announced that Erin Kelly has been appointed as its next executive director. James Igoe, who has served as executive director since 2001, will remain with the organization as policy and legislative consultant.
Kelly was promoted to associate director of Preservation Massachusetts in 2017, and before then, was overseeing key elements of the administration, development, fundraising, programming, policy, and strategic growth of the organization.
Kelly said, “I am honored and excited to lead the next chapter of Preservation Massachusetts. Having worked in close partnership with Jim for 18 years, I have learned from the very best. Our priorities of strong legislation, advocacy, and education are essential to the future of our Commonwealth. Preserving historic resources is more important than ever; it matters in every community across Massachusetts and the entire country.”
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These leadership appointments are effective Jan. 1, 2022, and follow the unanimous vote of the board of directors.
“Erin is an exceptional leader who is well-respected within the historic preservation community in Massachusetts, the entire Northeast region, and Washington, D.C., where so much of our policy and advocacy work takes place. If you asked Jim, he would tell you that he and Erin have shared leadership responsibilities for over a decade and that, for years, Erin has led Preservation Massachusetts’ annual fundraising and strategic planning. As an anchor of the team for 18 years, she brings an unmatched understanding of our operations and programs. Her leadership is essential to maintaining key relationships with constituents, funders, and stakeholders in the region,” said John Gahan, chair of Preservation Massachusetts’ board of directors.
Since joining the organization in 2004, Kelly has worked on many critical programs, such as the Preservation Circuit Riders; created new educational resources, such as Preservation Conversations and the online Action Center; and spearheaded the 1772 Foundation’s matching grant program for Massachusetts. Her collaborative experience spans regional New England partnerships to national board service.
