M.A.H.P. Anniversary Series: Carrie J. Gregory, M.A.H.P. '06

To celebrate the M.A. in Historic Preservation Program's 25th anniversary and the success of its alumnae/i, the Welch Center will be interviewing some of the program's graduate to gain insight on what they love about the program, what they learned in the program, and how they are working to preserve places in a rapidly changing world.

This week's feature is: Carrie J. Gregory, M.A.H.P. '06 

What excites you most about the field of historic preservation?

I am excited by all the innovations that are constantly taking place in the field of Historic Preservation, such as the implementation of new technologies in materials conservation and creative strategies for mitigation.

What is the most interesting/unusual/challenging project you’ve worked on?

The most interesting project I have worked on was a cultural landscape study of 216 square miles in northwest New Mexico, which focused on historical-period homesteading and land use.

What is your favorite thing about the M.A.H.P. Program at Goucher?

My favorite thing about the MAHP program at Goucher was the intellect, knowledge, and experience of the faculty. Looking back, I am still amazed by the caliber of the instructors and the expertise they shared. I cannot think of any traditional historic preservation graduate program that has such a capable pool of instructors.

What is the most important thing you have learned from the M.A.H.P. Program?

The most important thing I have learned from the MAHP program is that there is always more than one way to solve a problem, and collaboration is key to finding the best solution.

How has the field of historic preservation changed over the years?

The most significant change I have seen in the field of historic preservation is an increase in inclusion. We are now hearing from more diverse voices than ever, and there are still more voices to be discovered. It is important to remember that our heritage is shared by many.

How are you working to preserve places in a rapidly changing world? What are the challenges in doing this work?

My work in preserving places starts at the foundation of the historic preservation field, with identification. My biggest challenge in identifying significant places is finding the appropriate story to tell.

What historic places do you want to see preserved in the years to come? Why?

I am interested in historical places that are important at the local level and mean the most to the communities that use, appreciate, and cherish them. I think locally significant places are very adept at communicating/demonstrating the concept of heritage and can nurture historic-preservation awareness in the youth of our society.