Cornerstones, Inc. Board of Directors announces that Todd Morgan has been named Cornerstones’ new executive director, effective Monday. Mr. Morgan has emerged as the right person to lead Cornerstones as it continues to pursue the mission of preserving the architectural heritage and urban fabric of Chattanooga, said officials.
“We are thrilled to bring Todd Morgan into this leadership role and to welcome such an accomplished individual who brings a wealth of relevant experience and energy to the organization,” says Arch Willingham, Board of Directors president. “Todd is incredibly astute at making historic preservation interesting and pertinent – and his expertise in all aspects of our business make him a perfect fit for role and taking Cornerstones in a new direction.”
Mr. Morgan has a 16-year career in historic preservation, neighborhood revitalization, economic development, planning, and architecture. His experience includes nonprofit management, policy and advocacy initiatives, public-private partnerships, education programs and fundraising. For the past three years, he has served as executive director of Knox Heritage, Inc., a regional historic preservation nonprofit focused on real estate development and management. In this role, he provided strategic direction for the board of directors, committees, staff, contractors and partners in all operational, financial, communication and personnel components as well as donor relations and fundraising.
Previously he served as Community Development program director and Tennessee Main Street director for the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and Program Director for the Morristown Community Development Corporation.
Mr. Morgan’s community service has included participation in Leadership Knoxville, Leadership Morristown, East Tennessee Regional Leadership, East Tennessee Community Design Center Community Collaborative and East Tennessee Quality Growth, Inc., where he served on their Board of Directors. He is a National Community Development Council – Certified Historic Real Estate Finance Professional and has completed certifications from U.T. Institute for Public Service and Walters State Institute for Busines and Industry. Morgan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Economics and a Master of Business Administration from Carson-Newman University.
“I’m excited to take on this role and look forward to working with the Cornerstones’ board and leaders in the community," said Mr. Morgan. "Chattanooga has a rich history and wonderful architectural heritage.
“I’ve seen firsthand how strategic historic preservation practices can have measurable economic impact while also improving overall quality of life. My goal is for Cornerstones to be seen as a valued community partner in helping to ensure Chattanooga’s historic places are cared for and actively contributing to the city’s growth and unique sense of place."
“Thank you to our donors, volunteers and extended community of support for Cornerstones during this transition and as Todd assumes his leadership role,” said Mr. Willingham. “Special thanks to Melissa Mortimer, past president of Cornerstones’ board of directors, for her leadership in connecting us with Todd and guiding the organization toward a new vision – one that more deeply engages our community and its leaders and continues our passionate advocacy and dedication to historic preservation.”