At the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation’s March 2025 program, Executive Director Jennifer McGregor welcomed guests and shared exciting momentum—highlighting a record-breaking Annual Fund year and upcoming initiatives, including an April 27 Annual Meeting featuring Preservation Awards and a keynote on favorite Lake Forest homes.
The program then turned to its main purpose: explaining what truly “makes a winner” in preservation. Panelists—historian Art Miller, preservation consultant Susan Benjamin, architect James Shearron, restoration expert Jim Opsitnik, and board member Kelsey Kleinert—shared practical guidance on award criteria, nominations, and best practices for stewarding historic homes. Key themes included harmony and compatibility, repairing rather than replacing original features (especially windows and masonry), and choosing the right team to preserve character while making thoughtful updates.
