Preservation Houston’s board of directors is pleased to announce that Jennifer Kapral has been named the organization’s new executive director.
Kapral brings more than 20 years of experience in education, nonprofit leadership and strategic partnerships. She most recently served as Senior Director of Education and Outreach at Asia Society Texas, where she developed nationally recognized programs, produced large-scale public initiatives and co-led an $11 million capital campaign. Her earlier leadership roles include positions at Teach For America, Raise Your Hand Texas and the Houston Independent School District. She is a Fulbright-Hays award recipient and holds degrees from the University of Pittsburgh and the University of St. Thomas.
Jennifer Kapral / photo by Juan Islas
A longtime Houston resident, Kapral’s personal story fuels her passion for PH’s mission. Growing up in Charleroi, Pennsylvania — a small town with a proud 135-year legacy of glassmaking — she developed an early appreciation for the power of place, local industry and community heritage. That background, combined with her dedication to amplifying diverse narratives, makes her uniquely suited to help lead Preservation Houston’s next phase of growth.
“I’m thrilled to join Preservation Houston at this exciting moment for the organization,” Kapral said. “Houston’s shared history is full of world-class accomplishments alongside the untold stories of the millions who have called this city home. Preserving our cultural and architectural heritage is key to ensuring these stories and places remain a vibrant part of our community.”
Kapral’s appointment follows a rigorous nine-month national search conducted in partnership with Gershenson Consulting. More than 300 candidates were sourced through professional networks, staff, board members and community referrals, resulting in more than 40 preliminary screenings and nine in-person interviews. The search committee unanimously recommended Kapral for the role.
“Jennifer brings warmth, vision and energy to the role, along with a collaborative approach to leadership,” PH Board President Dave Morris said. “She’s passionate about connecting people to the stories that shape our city and knows how to move an organization forward by building on its strengths. We’re excited to welcome her as the next leader of Preservation Houston.”
Kapral begins work in the PH office today, April 28. If you would like to send her a note of welcome, you can reach her directly at jkapral@preservationhouston.org.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet her in person at the 2025 Member Reception and Meeting on Monday, May 19. The event is open to current Preservation Houston members. If you’re not a member yet, join PH today — then RSVP to let us know you’ll be attending.