Staff
The commitment and experience of our staff is extraordinary.
They are trained in architecture, architectural history, historic preservation, maritime studies, education, European history, urban planning, journalism, history, museum studies, American studies, and geography, among other fields. They have led local historical societies, served as art curators, served on state preservation review boards, catalogued history as archivists, and worked in design studios. As a testament to the longevity and collegiality of our organization, several of our staff members have been with Preservation Connecticut for over 10 years.
JANE MONTANARO, Executive Director, is responsible for overall strategic direction, management, and success of Preservation Connecticut by overseeing daily operations, ensuring mission is achieved, and managing staff, programs, and finances. She works in close collaboration with the Board of Trustees to provide leadership and guidance to achieve organizational goals.
CHRISTOPHER WIGREN, Deputy Director and editor of Connecticut Preservation News, our acclaimed bimonthly magazine. Chris heads our preservation easements program, survey projects, and gives wonderful architectural history talks, especially those exploring his book- CT Architecture Stories of 100 Places.
MIKE FORINO, PhD, Director of Preservation and Partnerships, provides management of the field service team, Circuit Riders and preservation staff, which includes oversight of grant programs, surveys, and other special projects. Through field service and outreach, Mike cultivates and grows our partner network.
JORDAN SORENSEN, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Operations, ensures all Preservation Connecticut’s activities align with the brand and strategic plan. She leads the planning, execution, and monitoring of strategic projects and organizational business operations.
RENÉE TRIBERT, Preservation Services Manager, provides municipal and developer assistance, identifying planning and capital needs and an array of preservation solutions.
KRISTEN HOPEWOOD, Development and Outreach Manager, leads fundraising efforts, manages member and donor relationships, and plans community engagement and special events.
BRAD SCHIDE, Senior Circuit Rider, our original Circuit Rider, who helped establish this signature program which provides immediate on-site technical assistance. Brad also leads Connecticut Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) interventions through community organizing and coordination of professional teams.
STACEY VAIRO, Circuit Rider and Education Manager, responds to technical assistance inquiries around the state, and provides an array of educational programs and talks, including training for members of Local Historic District commissions.
STEFON DANCZUK, Field Service and Program Coordinator, provides support to the Circuit Rider team with expertise in archaeology, grants management and social media: capturing drone images and video.
Join the Preservation Connecticut team! Open full-time jobs will be posted on our blog, and intern applications are welcome any time.
Important Note: We do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religious creed, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, sexual orientation, intellectual disability, mental disability, physical disability, blindness, marital status, family status, or gender identity or expression.