RICHARD MOE ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM NATIONAL TRUST

Dear Friends: A few minutes ago I announced to the National Trust staff that I will be retiring next year, and I want to share that news with all of you as well. It is a decision I have arrived at in recent months because I have concluded it is time for the Trust as well as time for me. Every organization from time to time needs to revitalize itself by seeking a generation change of leadership to take it to a new level. After 17 years in this position, I believe this is such a time for the Trust. It has been a wonderful time for me, really the best professional experience I have ever had, and I feel so privileged and so grateful to have had the opportunity. The thing I feel best about is the quality of work we have been able to do together and of course the friendships that I have been fortunate enough to develop with so many talented and dedicated people. I believe we have made a real difference in communities and at historic places all over the country, and I hope you share my pride in that fact. I have told the board that I will stay until a successor is chosen, and that will most likely be sometime next spring. Chairman Cliff Hudson has established a search committee of board members and retained the professional services of Mary Tydings at Russell Reynolds to conduct a national search for the position. My highest priority in these next months is to do everything possible to ensure the smoothest possible transition, and I would appreciate your help in that effort. Until a new president arrives, things will remain very much the same. I intend to pursue our work every bit as enthusiastically as ever, and I have no doubt you will as well. I’m not saying goodbye because I will be around a good while yet and there will be ample opportunity for that. In the meantime, all the best. Dick Richard Moe, President National Trust for Historic Preservation