News Summary
Sue Adler, the CEO and President of the Historic Savannah Foundation, will step down in June 2025 after six transformative years. Her leadership included the launch of the HSF Lecture Series, advocacy work for community preservation, and a focus on public education regarding Savannah’s rich history. Adler’s next role will be with Savannah Historic Initiatives, ensuring her continued engagement in preserving the area’s cultural heritage. A search for her successor is underway as the community reflects on her impactful contributions.
Farewell to a Visionary: Sue Adler to Step Down as CEO of Historic Savannah Foundation
Savannah, the beautiful coastal city known for its stunning architecture and rich history, is about to say goodbye to a significant figure in the local heritage community. Sue Adler, the CEO and President of the Historic Savannah Foundation (HSF), plans to step down in June 2025 after a transformative six years of leadership. Sue’s journey with HSF began in 2019 when she came on board as the Chief Mission Officer. Her passion led her to become the Interim CEO and, shortly after, she was officially appointed as CEO in 2020.
Strengthening Community Ties
During her tenure, Adler played a vital role in enhancing connections with local landmarks, notably the Davenport House Museum. A remarkable partnership blossomed under her leadership, resulting in exciting collaborative programming and commendable preservation efforts that drew in more visitors. The community witnessed the opening of the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy in April 2022, a pivotal part of HSF that serves as the home for the Davenport House Museum’s shop and staff offices. Additionally, it includes the Murray C. Perlman & Wayne C. Spear Preservation Center, setting the stage for a variety of year-round events, including the popular Artisan Spotlight Series.
A Commitment to Education and Awareness
Adler introduced the monthly HSF Lecture Series, covering an array of engaging topics that aim to educate the public. From discovering Jewish food traditions in the Lowcountry to examining the life of Susie King Taylor, these lectures became a staple for those looking to learn more about Savannah’s rich history. Additionally, in 2023, the Davenport House Museum added the Urban Enslaved Exhibit, which provided deeper insights into the house’s historical significance during the time of slavery, underscoring the importance of understanding all facets of Savannah’s past.
Advocating for Community and Heritage
Adler’s leadership was also marked by vigorous community advocacy. She formed the I-16 Flyover Removal Coalition, focusing on local infrastructure issues that impact neighborhoods and historical preservation. Recognizing the urgency to protect the city’s cultural landscape, Adler collaborated in January 2025 to launch the Endangered Places initiative, aimed at safeguarding local historic sites from potential demolition.
A New Journey Awaits
With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit work, Adler has had an impressive career, previously serving as the Executive Director of the Georgia Southeast Division of the March of Dimes. As her time with HSF comes to a close, she will be transitioning to a new role as the Executive Director for Savannah Historic Initiatives, a nonprofit organization aligned with the Civis Foundation.
Sue Adler’s involvement in various organizations further highlights her commitment to the Savannah community. She has contributed her expertise to the Savannah Estate Planning Council, Visit Savannah, and the City of Savannah’s Tourism Advisory Council, proving her dedication to the city’s cultural and historical integrity.
Looking Ahead
The HSF Board of Trustees deeply appreciates Adler’s impactful leadership throughout her tenure. As they prepare for her departure, a nationwide search will begin to find her successor as CEO and President of HSF. This is an exciting time for the Historic Savannah Foundation as they look to continue Adler’s legacy of community engagement and historical preservation.
As Savannah turns a new page, the community is sure to celebrate all that Adler has accomplished while looking forward to the next chapter in the city’s ongoing story of growth and resilience.
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- Savannah Business Journal: City of Savannah Awarded $972,000 Grant
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- Grice Connect: Georgia Ports Targets Community Improvements
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- Wikipedia: Savannah, Georgia
- Google Search: Savannah Georgia
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Savannah
- Google News: Savannah news
