Preservation Greensboro Welcomes Ashley Rust as the New Executive Director

Preservation Greensboro is excited to announce the appointment of Ashley Rust as our new Executive Director. Following a comprehensive and thoughtful search, the Board of Directors unanimously selected Rust to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth, stewardship, and community impact.

Ashley brings more than a decade of experience in historic site management, cultural resource management, public history, fundraising, and nonprofit leadership. Most recently, she served as Park Manager at Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site in South Carolina, where she provided strategic leadership across operations, staff development, preservation initiatives, educational programming, and community partnerships. Her professional background reflects a deep commitment to historic places, community centered preservation, and building strong, sustainable organizations.

Originally from Danville, Virginia, Ashley grew up near Greensboro and is excited to return to the region to deepen her work with historic homes, neighborhoods, and community based preservation efforts. Her connection to this area, paired with her professional experience, makes her a strong and natural fit for Preservation Greensboro’s mission and values.

Ashley brings a collaborative, forward looking approach to leadership and a strong vision for growing and strengthening mission driven organizations. At Preservation Greensboro, she will guide efforts to build on the organization’s strong foundation, expand community engagement, and grow the impact of key programs, including Blandwood Museum, Architectural Salvage of Greensboro, and the Blandwood Carriage House.

“I am honored to join Preservation Greensboro at such an important and promising moment in its history,” said Rust. “I look forward to working alongside the Board, staff, volunteers, and community partners to strengthen stewardship of Blandwood, expand Preservation Greensboro’s impact, and revitalize PGI’s educational and advocacy engagement programs across the city.”

The Board of Directors expressed strong confidence in Rust’s leadership and vision. “The Board’s decision to hire Ashley Rust was unanimous,” said Jeffrey (Jeff) Parsons, President of PGI. “Her experience securing major funding for historic preservation, combined with her proven nonprofit leadership and community engagement, positions Preservation Greensboro for continued growth and long term sustainability. We are excited about the future of the organization under her leadership.”

This leadership transition comes at an energizing time for Preservation Greensboro as we look ahead to a season of major public engagement, including our largest annual fundraiser, the Tour of Historic Homes and Gardens. We are grateful for the continued support of our members, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who make this work possible.

Ashley will begin her role as Executive Director in March. We look forward to welcoming her to Greensboro and sharing opportunities for our community to connect with her in the coming months.

For more information about Preservation Greensboro, Inc. and its programs, visit: www.preservationgreensboro.org