St. Petersburg, FL — Preserve the ‘Burg is pleased to welcome Emanuel “Manny” Leto as their new Executive Director. Manny will be responsible for leading the organization and working to further the strategic initiatives set forth by the Board of Directors. This includes local preservation advocacy, community outreach and education, planning, program management, fundraising, and staff and board leadership.
As Preserve the ‘Burg continues to grow and diversify its membership offerings, Manny is looking forward to connecting with the St. Petersburg residents and community through expanded programming, tours, and events. In addition, Manny would like to work towards fostering a relationship with local developers where they can build a true coalition of preservation advocates in partnership with businesses, nonprofits, community leaders, and city officials.
“While historic architecture provides a dramatic and unique backdrop for this growing city, we know that the value of historic preservation extends beyond just the buildings,” said Emanuel Leto. “St. Pete’s rich history provides a foundation for our city’s future, while helping shape a unique sense of place for residents and visitors alike.”
Manny has been embedded in the Tampa Bay area’s cultural community for more than two decades, and joins Preserve the ‘Burg after 13 years as the Director of Marketing and Communications at the Tampa Bay History Center. In addition, Manny served on a variety of nonprofit boards over the years, including the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce and the American Institute of Architects Cultural Heritage Committee. Manny currently serves on the board for the Tampa Bay Center for Architecture and Design.
“We are thrilled to have Manny joining us,” said Robin Reed, Preserve the ‘Burg President. “His enthusiasm and passion for preserving St. Petersburg’s history and character made it obvious he was the best choice for the position.”
Manny is calling on the St. Petersburg community to reach out, get educated, and join Preserve the ‘Burg in their mission to keep St. Petersburg special. To learn more about the organization and membership offers, volunteer opportunities, or local advocacy updates please contact Manny at mleto@preservetheburg.org or visit https://preservetheburg.org/
Preserve the ‘Burg social media channels:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/preservetheburgsp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preservetheburg/
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Preserve the ‘Burg is the city of St. Petersburg’s local authority for cultural and historical preservation. The organization’s mission is to educate, advocate, and celebrate all things related to St. Petersburg’s history, and accomplishes this through programs and conversations to align city officials, businesses, developers, and community members on the preservation and management of historic properties and neighborhoods. Preserve the ‘Burg is an incorporated 501(c)3 organization of an all-volunteer board of directors, a full time Executive Director, and several part-time staff members.
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