COURSE: How Preservation and Sustainability Shape Our Understanding of History

Welcome to the Gābl Media Continuing Education podcast feed! Each podcast is approved for continuing education credits.How Preservation and Sustainability Shape Our Understanding of History AIA CES program ID: GMG.0033Approved LUs: 1 LU|ElectivePrerequisites: NoneProgram level: EntryAdvance learner preparation: NoneWhat do we choose to remember—and who gets to decide?This AIA-approved continuing education course invites architects and design professionals to examine preservation not just as a technical practice, but as a deeply human act. Through the lens of architect Nakita Reed’s work at Menokin and Montpelier, this conversation explores how race, memory, and sustainability are braided into the structures we save and the stories we tell.Hosted by Nakita Reed, this course examines how preservation can both honor the past and reframe it for a more equitable future.This AIA-approved continuing education course explores the layered intersections of race, sustainability, heritage, and memory through Nakita Reed’s reflections as both an architect and preservation professional. Centered on her work at Menokin, an 18th-century plantation in Virginia, the conversation highlights the importance of inclusive storytelling, structural parity, and sustainability in shaping architectural narratives that acknowledge the full truth of history.Program DescriptionThis continuing education course features host Nakita Reed in a powerful exploration of architecture, preservation, and personal connection to history. Centering on Menokin—an 18th-century plantation home—Nakita discusses her experience preparing the site’s historic structures report and reflects on what it means to document, preserve, and interpret a space that carries both monumental achievement and generational trauma.The episode also touches on recent controversies at Montpelier and the efforts to ensure descendant communities are meaningfully included in the stewardship of historic sites. Nakita considers how her identity as a Black woman shapes her preservation work, and how sustainability and architectural storytelling intersect to expand understanding, inclusion, and healing.Learning ObjectivesAfter completing this course, participants will be able to:Analyze the role of historic preservation in addressing the complex histories of race, slavery, and architectural legacy at historic sites like Menokin and MontpelierEvaluate the significance of structural parity and inclusive storytelling in the governance and interpretation of historic sitesDiscuss the intersection of sustainability and preservation as tools for transmitting knowledge and fostering community connections across generationsExplain how personal and professional perspectives shape the approach to preservation and storytelling in architectural heritage projectsWho Should Take This CoursePreservation professionals, architects, and designers seeking to apply inclusive frameworks to their workAEC leaders and educators exploring the ethical responsibilities of storytelling in preservationPractitioners looking to earn CE credit while gaining deeper insight into sustainability, equity, and memoryWhy It MattersEarn AIA CE credit while learning how historic preservation can elevate truth and justiceUnderstand real-world methods for engaging descendant communities and reframing heritage workHear from an industry-leading host sharing both technical insight and personal perspectiveTake the Quiz for your CertificateAIA CES Provider statementGābl Media is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10024977. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES ([email protected] or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.Mentioned in this episode:Gabl Membership