Tuesday, September 2, 2014

7 Questions With Mark McDonald, CEO of the Georgia Trust

(Mark C. McDonald has served as President and CEO of The Georgia Trust since June 2008.  Mr.   
McDonald has over 25 years of professional involvement in historic preservation and a strong business background. He has served as the executive director for three preservation organizations in the Southeast, including the Historic Salisbury Foundation in North Carolina from 1986-1990, the Mobile Historic Development Commission in Mobile, Alabama from 1990-1998 and the Historic Savannah Foundation from 1998-2008.)

1. How and/or when did you get you hooked on history?
I developed a love for history in elementary school reading those little orange biographies of famous Americans. I think I read virtually every one in the series.

2. What role does history play or has it played in your personal life?
History is always at the center of my life and value system. I live in historic houses and neighborhoods, plan my vacations around historic cities and sites and choose to do business with restaurants, hotels, merchants, etc who are located in historic buildings.

3. How is/How was history a part of your professional life/career?
I left the practice of law in 1986 to pursue a career in historic preservation. I have rarely regretted it.

4. Why is studying/knowing history important?
It provides us with continuity in our culture and civilization and keeps us connected to people from the past and future.

5. What is your favorite period or aspect of history to learn about and why?
Renaissance Italy and 19th century America. Both periods represent times of cultural awakening and definition.

6. What is the Georgia trust and what is its mission?
The Mission of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation is to work for the preservation and revitalization of Georgia's diverse historic resources and advocate their appreciation, protection and use.

The Vision of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation is for Georgians to understand and appreciate the irreplaceable value of historic buildings and places and their relevance to modern life. We envision Georgians who promote careful stewardship and active use of these diverse resources and recognize the economic and cultural benefits of preservation. We envision communities where new development complements and reinforces thriving downtowns and historic neighborhoods, contributing to a healthy and enriched humane environment.

7. How can Georgians preserve their past and why is it important ?
Join the Georgia Trust! Go to www.georgiatrust.org

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