Programs Manager for the Summit County Land Bank
Elizabeth Kukwa is currently a Programs Manager for the Summit County Land Bank where she organizes and oversees in-house rehabs and consults on historic preservation projects, including the restoration of The John S. Knight House. She believes that the land bank is an important tool in maintaining communities and ensuring these historic communities have a thriving future.
Prior to her role at the Land Bank, Elizabeth served as The Heritage Home Program Manager for the Cleveland Restoration Society. In this role she had the opportunity to work with the residents of Northeast Ohio on the rehab and restoration of their homes to fit preservation standards.
Her love of historic preservation extends beyond her professional life where she serves as a member of the Uban Design and Historic Preservation Commission for the City of Akron. In her spare time, she assists her friends and family on the interior design and restoration of their historic homes and sells her husband’s pottery.
Land banks and historic preservation often cross paths in neighborhoods where vacancy, blight, and historic assets collide. This session brings together leaders from land banks and preservation groups to explore how these missions can align. Panelists will share real-world examples of collaboration, including historic rehabilitation projects, demolition considerations, home inspection and repair programs, and creative initiatives to preserve community history. From salvaging materials to landmarking properties, the discussion will highlight both the opportunities and the tensions that come with balancing neighborhood stabilization and historic preservation. Approved for 1.50 AIA HSW credit, sponsored by Schooley Caldwell.