The National Trust for Historic Preservation presented the American Express Aspire Award to Glenn Wilson, President and CEO of the non-profit organization Communities First, Inc. of Flint, Mich. Wilson is one of 11 award winners honored by the National Trust during its 2016 PastForward National Preservation Conference last week in Houston.
The American Express Aspire Award recognizes emerging preservation leaders who demonstrate innovative thinking and achievement in advancing historic preservation in their local, state or national communities.
Glenn Wilson is a dynamic preservation leader who has been instrumental in the restoration of historic buildings in Flint for the past five years. His preservation projects have not only instilled new life into three historic buildings, but also helped to fill important housing needs in the community. For example, he led a $5.1 million renovation of the former Oak School and turned the 1898 building into the Oak Street Senior Apartments, which is now home to 26 seniors. He is currently in the process of rehabilitating another historic school, Coolidge Elementary, and the 1924 Swayze Apartment building, created by William Ballenger, a founder of General Motors.
“Glenn’s expertise and ingenuity in finding practical solutions to complex preservation challenges are an inspiration,” said Stephanie Meeks, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “He sees the potential for buildings that have long been neglected, vandalized and rife with challenges, and transforms them into community gems— all while retaining their historic integrity.”
“As a strong supporter of historic preservation efforts, American Express is inspired by the work of individuals like Glenn,” said Timothy J. McClimon, president of the American Express Foundation. “We applaud his ability to see the underlying value of historic places, as well as his talents for uplifting his community through the power of preservation.”
The award was presented to Wilson at the PastForward conference closing luncheon on November 18, 2016. A video summarizing Glenn’s accomplishments that led to the award can be found at http://forum.savingplaces.org/blogs/rebecca-bice/2016/11/16/the-2016-nat....
The National Preservation Awards are bestowed on distinguished individuals, nonprofit organizations, public agencies and corporations whose skill and determination have given new meaning to their communities through preservation of our architectural and cultural heritage. These efforts include citizen attempts to save and maintain important landmarks; companies and craftsmen whose work restores the richness of the past; the vision of public officials who support preservation projects and legislation in their communities; and educators and journalists who help Americans understand the value of preservation. The winners of the National Preservation Awards will appear online at Forum.SavingPlaces.org