RICHMOND — Preservation Virginia, the nation’s oldest statewide historic preservation organization, recently announced it has selected Will Glasco to be its next chief executive officer.
Preservation Virginia has served as a statewide historic preservation leader, saving more than 400 historic places. With six historic sites, the organization aims to protect and preserve historic places and communities in all regions of Virginia.
On the staff of Preservation Virginia for 10 years, Glasco was selected following a national search led by Aspen Leadership Group.
“The Board of Trustees performed a thoughtful and extensive search for its next leader,” said Ronald L. Hurst, chair of Preservation Virginia. “We’re very pleased with this outcome and know that, with his extensive knowledge of our organization and its goals, Will Glasco will lead us into the future with much success.”
Growing up in Richmond, Glasco has spent his 16-year career in history museums.
After joining Preservation Virginia in 2014, Glasco served as director of development and most recently as chief operating officer. Previously he was with the American Civil War Museum. He currently serves on several nonprofit and professional development boards, including Historic Turkey Run House, the Rural Plains Foundation and the Virginia Association of Fundraising Executives, Preservation Virginia noted.
A writing major, the organization added Glasco is now studying for a graduate degree in American History from Gettysburg College.
“I’m honored to be given the responsibility of stewarding this impactful organization into the future, and we have a lot planned in the coming years,” said Glasco. “Consulting on preservation issues, advocating for preservation policy and stewarding our six historic sites open to the public are top priorities.”
In December 2023, Current CEO Elizabeth S. Kostelny announced her plan to retire.
Kostelny has been with the organization since 1990. According to Preservation Virginia, her accomplishments include growing the archaeology program at Historic Jamestowne, expanding community engagement on historic preservation issues and leading the organization through several significant fundraising campaigns.
