The Foundation for Historical Louisiana has named Fairleigh Cook Jackson the second ever executive director of the organization in its 52-year history. The FHL board confirmed the appointment at a meeting Wednesday evening at the Old Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge.
Jackson’s hiring comes four months after an FHL committee launched a national search to fill the position. Carolyn Bennett, who has served as executive director of FHL for the past 40 years, announced in February that she would be stepping down. Bennett had vowed to remain in the position until her replacement was found. Her last full day on the job will be Friday.
“With Fairleigh at the helm along with the professional staff and dedicated board of directors, FHL is poised to enter a new era of achievement and influence for preservation in our city and state,” says Bennett in a statement, adding she is honored to serve as executive director emeritus for the foundation following her departure.
Jackson, who has a decade of experience serving area nonprofit organizations, will take over as FHL executive director on Sept. 15. FHL board member Lynda Hargroder will serve as volunteer interim director during the lapse between when Bennett leaves and Jackson takes the helm.
Jackson currently serves as director of member services for the Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations, and she previously served as a director of advancement with the LSU Museum of Art, campaign director for the Community Fund for the Arts and director of development for Boys & Girls Club of Greater Baton Rouge.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the Foundation for Historical Louisiana and our state in this capacity. Each of us can connect with the many benefits of historic preservation, whether through the importance of telling our rich cultural stories or the revitalization of our communities,” says Jackson in a statement.
