We are excited to celebrate the people behind this year’s most inspiring preservation projects at the 2025 Preservation Awards. Join us on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at The Caz (2221 Seneca Street) to celebrate the region’s most impactful preservation projects at Preservation Buffalo Niagara’s largest fundraiser of the year.
Please note: The Caz will stay open until 8:30 PM for the Afterparty! Enjoy great company and live music for an extra hour — Thank you, Jake!!
For more information on the Preservation Awards, please click here.
To purchase tickets for the Preservation Awards, please click here.
Honoring Emerging Preservationist: Hallie Wright
Hallie Wright’s journey into the world of historic preservation didn’t start in a classroom—it began at the age of fifteen, volunteering at Buffalo’s iconic Central Terminal. As a teenager, she was captivated by the Terminal’s grandeur and potential, and she quickly became immersed in the work of advocating for its future. That early spark ignited a passion that has since evolved into a meaningful career dedicated to protecting Western New York’s built heritage.
A native of Western New York, Hallie’s deep-rooted connection to the region informs everything she does. After completing her undergraduate studies, she enrolled in the University at Buffalo’s Master of Urban Planning program, where she also earned an advanced certificate in Historic Preservation. Her academic focus sharpened her understanding of the field while reinforcing her belief in preservation as a tool for community revitalization and resilience.
Today, Hallie works as a Preservation Planner with Preservation Studios, a firm known for its expertise in Historic Tax Credit projects and the adaptive reuse of historic buildings. In her role, Hallie is involved in complex planning processes, documentation, and strategic efforts to secure funding for the restoration and rehabilitation of historic properties across the region.
Yet Hallie’s contributions extend well beyond her professional responsibilities. She is committed to ensuring that preservation is accessible and inclusive, particularly for homeowners who may not be familiar with the tools available to them. As part of that mission, she helps organize and lead a pro bono Historic Tax Credit workshop for homeowners throughout Western New York. These workshops provide practical, hands-on guidance for individuals looking to reinvest in their historic homes, making preservation more approachable and achievable.
In addition, Hallie serves as a Historian on the Town of Amherst’s Historic Preservation Committee, where she plays a key advisory role in identifying and protecting local landmarks and cultural resources. Her work ensures that Amherst’s history is not only remembered but actively incorporated into the town’s planning and future development.
Hallie Wright represents the best of the next generation of preservationists: thoughtful, passionate, and deeply committed to place. Her ability to bridge grassroots advocacy with technical expertise makes her a powerful voice for historic preservation in Western New York and beyond.
We are thrilled to recognize Hallie with the 2025 Emerging Preservationist Award—an honor that celebrates her tireless efforts, her growing impact, and the bright future she’s helping to shape for our region’s historic places.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Hallie on our monthly Historic Tax Credit Workshops, and she brings so much passion and professionalism to the industry. I’m super proud of her!” – Emily Jarnot, Preservation Planner, Preservation Buffalo Niagara