Broward Trust for Historic Preservation
Protecting Broward County’s Historic Assets for Future Generations
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Michaela Conca - President
As President of Broward Trust for Hisoric Preservation Michaela promotes historic landmark designation and documentation to protect architecturally significant structures, community history, and important sites for future generations.
Maggie Hunt - Vice President
Maggie grew up in Fort Lauderdale and Lauderdale‑by‑the‑Sea, later earning degrees in film/television/radio and design, including extensive study in art and architectural history.
After relocating, she spent many years as an interior designer, applying her design background professionally.
Christopher Brennan - Treasurer
Christopfer became publicly active when he opposed a developer threatening the historic Rain Tree, later running as a non‑party‑affiliated candidate for mayor in 2015 and finishing second. Today, he is self‑employed and continues to dedicate time to environmental and historic preservation activism.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Joshua Arpin
Committed to merging scientific research with master carpentry, JW continues to restore Florida’s most meaningful historic buildings. His recent work includes the restoration of the Peacock Lodge in Port St. Lucie, where his expertise in DCP and historic construction methods ensures authenticity, longevity, and respect for Old Florida craftsmanship.
Terry Bean
Returning board member Terry Bean brings both her marketing expertise and her deep passion for historic preservation to the Broward Trust, working to expand public understanding of why safeguarding historic resources matters.
Dana Corona
Dana’s blend of policy expertise, analytical skill, and community‑focused leadership makes her an exceptional addition to the Board, strengthening the Trust’s ability to advocate, educate, and preserve Broward’s historic assets.Michael J. Gehron
Michael earned his Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Florida State University in 1980 and later achieved his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Florida in 1987. Michael brings scientific rigor, analytical expertise, and a lifelong connection to Broward County—making him a meaningful and appreciated addition to the Board.
Sharon Geltner
Sharon Geltner has won several awards for arts and culture reporting from the Florida Press Club and Society of Professional Journalists.
She’s now at work on the book: HIDING IN PLAIN SITE ART DECO GEMS OF BROWARD AND FORT LAUDERDALE.
Susan Gillis
With 26 years of experience supporting Fort Lauderdale’s historical initiatives, Susan has served as an author, public speaker, and professional historian dedicated to expanding public understanding of local heritage. As curator for the Boca Raton Historical Society, Susan played a key role in the renovation of Boca Raton’s historic Town Hall.
Robert Lasorsa
New bio coming soon,
Rick Lesser
Rick approaches board service with a grounded, problem‑solving mindset—gathering information, building relationships, and moving projects forward. He looks forward to applying his experience, energy, and community connections to support the Broward Trust for Historic Preservation’s mission.
Blaise McGinley
Blaise excels at generating design concepts that balance competing needs and at coordinating the full range of professional requirements needed to bring those concepts to life. His background includes direct management of development teams, production staff, and on‑site construction administration.
Richard Vest
In 2002, Richard purchased the abandoned and severely vandalized Joseph Wesley Young mansion—then listed among the Florida Trust’s four most endangered historic structures. He fully restored the property, earning recognition from the City of Hollywood and a feature on HGTV. In 2024, he accepted an invitation to serve on the Board of the Broward Trust for Historic Preservation,