2025 Annual
Sarasota County Heritage Awards
A Night of Celebration for Those Engaged in Preservation
The Heritage Awards celebrate the best preservation work in Sarasota County. Spotlighting the individuals, projects, and organizations protecting and enriching our understanding of the past to shape our future. Join us on Thursday, May 1, 5-7:30 pm at the Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Presented by The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation (SAHP), in collaboration with the History & Preservation Coalition of Sarasota County (HPCOSC).
Join us as a sponsor!
Sponsor the Awards
Your sponsorship helps us strive to create a future where our shared history is preserved, celebrated, and actively woven into the fabric of our communities. Through dedicated stewardship, education, and advocacy, your sponsorship helps us to protect historic places—keeping them alive, useful, and relevant. Our historic buildings and spaces will serve as vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming places for all, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.
By honoring our past, we shape a dynamic, inclusive future where history continues to inspire, inform, and unite us.
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Sponsorship Levels & Recognition
PRESERVATIONIST $7,500 plus
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Premium Table for 10
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Pre-event docent tour of the 3rd Floor Art Gallery
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Full Page Ad in Program - choice of inside front cover, inside back cover, or back cover of program
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Blast announcement of support to our subscriber base, on website, social media and advertising
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Recognition/logo at event on banner, slide show, and from podium
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Sponsorship Gift
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ADVOCATE $5,000
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Prime Table for 8
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Full Page Ad in Program
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Blast announcement of support to our subscriber base, on website, social media and advertising
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Recognition/logo at event on banner, slide show, and from podium
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Sponsorship Gift
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CELEBRATOR $2,500
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Premium Table for 6 Tickets
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Full Page Ad in Program
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Blast announcement of support to our subscriber base, on website, social media and advertising
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Recognition/logo at event on banner and slide show
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STEWARD $1,000
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Table for 4 Tickets
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Half Page Ad in Program
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Blast announcement of support to our subscriber base, on website, social media and advertising
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Recognition/logo at event on banner and slide show
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BUSINESS CARD PROGRAM AD $250
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1/4 Page Ad in Program
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FRIEND OF SAHP $50
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Name in Program
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QUESTIONS? Contact Tom McArdle • 941.254.3002 • sahp.mailbox@gmail.com
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2025 SARASOTA COUNTY HERITAGE AWARD RECIPIENTS
The 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the preservation, documentation, and advocacy of Sarasota County’s historic and prehistoric resources.
These awards celebrate individuals and organizations committed to preserving Sarasota’s architectural, archaeological, and cultural heritage while fostering public awareness of the importance of historic preservation.
The Awards Selection Committee solicited nominations from the community in January and received a strong slate of candidates for this year’s Awards. The selection process was not easy as we had more well qualified candidates than awards available. The Awards Committee thanks all nominators for their efforts, and all nominees for their invaluable contributions to historic preservation and history education in Sarasota County.
The SAHP also wishes to thank this year’s committee members:
Lorrie Muldowney, Immediate SAHP Past President, Committee Chair; Dr. Uzi Baram, Harry Klinkhamer, Larry Humes, Randall Kowalski, Tom McArdle, and Dr. Christopher Wilson.
2025 Award Categories & Recipients
Gregory A. and Eleana Najmy Hall Adaptive Use and Historic Preservation Award
Recognizes excellence in the rehabilitation, restoration, or adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Sarasota County. Eligible projects must adhere to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Historic Rehabilitation and have been completed in the last five years.
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Douglas and Susan Moore - Honored with 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Award for Historic Preservation for their exceptional rehabilitation of the Van Wezel Estate on Lido Key.
​​The historic Van Wezel Estate, originally built in the 1930s by renowned architect Thomas Reed Martin, is a landmark of Sarasota’s architectural heritage. It was one of the earliest year-round family residences on Lido Key and played a significant role in the city’s early history.
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After acquiring the property in 2019, Doug and Susan Moore embarked on an ambitious historical rehabilitation project, ensuring the estate’s rich legacy would be preserved for future generations. Working with esteemed architect Don Cooper and builder Greg Ross of Lee & Ross Built Homes, the Moore’s meticulously returned the home to its original 1930s grandeur while incorporating modern functionality.
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Their efforts included:
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Restoration of Original Features – Preserving wooden windows, pecky cypress ceilings, wainscoting, and vintage interior finishes.
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Structural Revitalization – Retaining the architectural integrity of the main house, detached garages, and the historic boathouse.
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Historic Design Elements – Bringing back period-accurate features, including double kitchen islands, wooden countertops, and a vintage rotisserie.
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Landscaping & Waterfront Conservation – Enhancing the natural beauty of the estate while maintaining the original property footprint.
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Their dedication to historic preservation has not only restored a significant piece of Sarasota’s past but has also reinforced the importance of protecting the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.
The Lillian Burns Individual Achievement Award
Honors an individual who has made profound contributions to the history and preservation movement in Sarasota County. Contributions may include:
• Scholarly research & publication
• Museology & education
• Historic preservation organizational leadership
• Public advocacy for history and preservation
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Linda Holland has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Sarasota County Lillian Burns Individual Achievement Heritage Award for her outstanding contributions to the revitalization, preservation, and community-building efforts in the Gillespie Park neighborhood.
For over 40 years, Linda Holland has dedicated herself to preserving the historic character and improving the livability of the Gillespie Park neighborhood, transforming it from a once-neglected neighborhood into a vibrant, safe, and welcoming community. Her leadership and commitment have had a lasting impact on both the Gillespie Park neighborhood and the city of Sarasota as a whole.
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A Legacy of Preservation and Community Engagement
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Historic Preservation Advocacy – Led efforts to gain historic designation for 13 Mediterranean-Revival style homes, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
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Neighborhood Transformation – Played a key role in cleaning up neglected properties, reducing crime, and fostering a sense of safety and community.
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Founder of the Gillespie Park Neighborhood Association (GPNA) – Established the GPNA and served in every leadership role, working tirelessly to enhance the neighborhood’s infrastructure, safety, and aesthetics.
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Champion for Public Spaces – Secured funding and grants for Gillespie Park improvements, including a police substation, playground equipment, butterfly garden, fitness trails, pickleball and basketball courts, free libraries, and a dog park.
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Citywide Impact – Served for over 30 years on Sarasota’s Nuisance Abatement Board, advocating for the cleanup of blighted properties and crime reduction throughout the city.
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Mentorship & Leadership – A founding member of the Coalition of City Neighborhood Associations (CCNA), Linda has mentored new leaders and continues to be a guiding force in the community.
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A Champion for Sarasota’s Historic Neighborhoods
Linda Holland’s vision, perseverance, and advocacy have ensured that Gillespie Park is not only a thriving historic neighborhood but also a citywide destination for residents and visitors. Her dedication to community-building and historic preservation has earned her the CCNA Lifetime Achievement Award, the Key to the City of Sarasota, and now the Lillian Burns Individual Achievement Heritage Award.
Outstanding Adaptive Reuse Award
Burns Court Historic District
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Susan and Jim Davis embarked on a meticulous three-year adaptive use project to return these buildings to their original charm while integrating modern functionality. These bungalows, once converted into a restaurant, were thoughtfully rehabilitated under the guidance of Tidmore-Henry & Associates and other historic preservation experts.
The project highlights include:
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Preserving Historic Craftsmanship – Retaining and restoring original walls and architectural details wherever possible.
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Thoughtful Modernization – Incorporating contemporary amenities while maintaining historic integrity.
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Community Engagement – Showcasing the restored bungalows through a public open house in collaboration with the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation.
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Historic Designation – Earning a national historic designation.
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Promoting Heritage Tourism – The restored bungalows now serve as popular Airbnb rentals, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Sarasota’s rich architectural history firsthand.
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To celebrate the restoration, Susan and Jim Davis partnered with the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation to host an exclusive tour and cocktail event, providing preservation advocates, city staff, and community members an up-close look at the remarkable transformation. The tour’s overwhelming success led to an additional showing due to high demand.
Historic Preservation Award
Historic Herald Square Building in Sarasota
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Denise Kowal will be honored for her extraordinary efforts in restoring and preserving the historic Herald Square Building in Sarasota.
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The Herald Square Building, originally designed in the 1920s by renowned architect Dwight James Baum, has long stood as a cornerstone near Sarasota’s historic Burns Court district. Over the past four decades, Denise Kowal has played a pivotal role in saving, restoring, and enhancing the building, ensuring its preservation as an architectural and cultural landmark.
The Herald Square Building, originally designed in the 1920s by renowned architect Dwight James Baum, has long stood as a cornerstone near Sarasota’s historic Burns Court district. Over the past four decades, Denise Kowal has played a pivotal role in saving, restoring, and enhancing the building, ensuring its preservation as an architectural and cultural landmark.
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Kowal purchased the building in 1986 to prevent its demolition and immediately began preservation efforts. Over recent years, she has meticulously worked to bring back its original Mediterranean Revival charm, making historically accurate updates while integrating essential structural improvements.
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Her recent 100-year anniversary rehabilitation of the building reflects an unparalleled dedication to preservation, including:​
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Restoration of the Original Facade – Removing layers of non-original stucco to reveal and preserve the building’s authentic lime-washed exterior.
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Historically Accurate Roof Replacement – Carefully sourcing hand-raked terracotta tiles to match the original 1920s materials.
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Authentic Window Restoration – Personally repairing and reglazing all 264 historic steel-frame windows, replacing cracked glass while preserving original panes.
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Sustainable and Traditional Materials – Using natural Venetian plaster, lime washes, and copper gutters to preserve the building’s historic integrity.
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Removal of Non-Original Features – Restoring the structure’s original design by eliminating decorative elements added in prior decades, including a cupola installed in the 1980s.
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Community-Enhancing Streetscape Improvements – Designing public park spaces, brick crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes around the building.
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Denise Kowal's unwavering dedication to historic preservation has ensured that Herald Square remains a beacon of Sarasota’s architectural heritage. Her rehabilitation project has been widely recognized as an exemplar of New Urbanist principles, emphasizing walkability, historic authenticity, and community engagement.
Archaeological Conservancy Award
Presented to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated outstanding efforts in preserving, documenting, and advocating for prehistoric and historic archaeological sites in Sarasota County.
​Sherry Robinson Svekis has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Award for Archaeological Conservancy in recognition of her extraordinary efforts in excavation, preservation, and public education of Sarasota and Manatee County’s archaeological heritage.
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​​For over two decades, Svekis has been a leading advocate for archaeological research and conservation, working to unearth and interpret historical sites, secure grant funding for preservation, and educate the public about Florida’s deep-rooted past. Her work has helped protect significant archaeological resources, ensuring that they remain accessible for future generations.
​​Pioneering Archaeological Conservation and Public Engagement
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Excavation and Preservation Leadership – Led major archaeological projects, including the excavation of the Manatee Mineral Spring Park Angola Settlement, one of Florida’s most significant maroon communities.
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UNESCO Nomination & National Recognition – Spearheaded the nomination of the Angola Maroon Community as a UNESCO International Site for the Memory of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and secured National Park Service Network to Freedom recognition.
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Grant Writing & Advocacy – Obtained over $100,000 in grant funding for final excavations and interpretive signage at key sites.
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Historical Interpretation & Public Exhibits – Designed and installed archaeological exhibits, including Freedom Seekers at the Manatee and The Archaeology of Freedom at Reflections of Manatee, making history accessible to the public.
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Educational Leadership – Helped establish the New College Public Archaeology Lab, where she supervised student research and facilitated public archaeology workshops.
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Community Outreach & Engagement – Developed public lectures, tours, and publications that connect Sarasota and Manatee County residents with their shared archaeological heritage.
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Preserving the Past for Future Generations
Sherry Robinson Svekis’ dedication to archaeological conservation extends beyond research, as she actively collaborates with local governments, historical societies, and academic institutions to ensure that significant prehistoric and historic sites are properly documented and preserved.
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Her commitment to community involvement and education is evident in her role as Vice President of Time Sifters Archaeology Society, where she helped establish the Cornelia Futor Memorial Student Research Grant Program, supporting archaeology students across Florida.
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“The archaeological record is our connection to the untold stories of those who came before us,” said Darwin Smith, President of Time Sifters. “Sherry’s tireless work in preservation, research, and public interpretation has been instrumental in safeguarding Sarasota’s history.”
Special Award for Outstanding Public Service
The late Dr. Clifford Smith has been awarded a Special 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Award for Outstanding Public Service in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to historic preservation, community engagement, and cultural conservation in Sarasota.
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Dr. Smith dedicated 18 years to the City of Sarasota’s Historic Preservation Program, where he played a pivotal role in identifying, protecting, and advocating for Sarasota’s historic resources. His work not only secured local, state, and national recognition for Sarasota’s preservation efforts but also ensured that future generations would benefit from the city’s rich architectural and cultural history.
​A Legacy of Preservation and Public Service
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Champion of Historic Preservation – Oversaw landmark designations, including Sarasota’s first Mid-Century Modern building to be listed on the historic register.
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Innovative Conservation Strategies – Introduced cutting-edge preservation techniques and helped secure exemptions and incentives to encourage adaptive reuse of historic structures.
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State and National Recognition – Earned prestigious awards for Sarasota’s historic preservation efforts, enhancing the city’s reputation as a leader in cultural heritage conservation.
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Mentorship & Leadership – Fostered partnerships between the City, historic preservation groups, and community advocates, ensuring sustainable preservation efforts.
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Beloved Community Advocate – Known for his collaborative spirit, unwavering dedication, and passion for Sarasota’s history, leaving a lasting impact on colleagues, city leaders, and preservationists alike.
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Dr. Clifford Smith’s legacy is best reflected in the many historic structures and preservation initiatives that stand today because of his expertise and advocacy. His impact extended far beyond Sarasota, as he was also recognized nationally and internationally for his contributions to historical conservation and archaeology.
Historical Collections Preservation Award
The Historical Collections Preservation Award honors individuals or organizations dedicated to preserve and protect Sarasota County’s historical records, photographs, and artifacts ensuring that future generations can engage with the region’s rich history. It honors individuals or organizations who work to ensure the longevity and accessibility of archival materials.
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Dorothy Korwek has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Award for Historical Collections Preservation in recognition of her lifelong commitment to history and preservation that has left a lasting impact on Venice, Florida, and beyond. Her work ensures that future generations have access to well-documented historical narratives.
The Historical Collections Preservation Award honors individuals or organizations dedicated to preserve and protect Sarasota County’s historical records, photographs, and artifacts ensuring that future generations can engage with the region’s rich history. It honors individuals or organizations who work to ensure the longevity and accessibility of archival materials.
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Dorothy Korwek has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Award for Historical Collections Preservation in recognition of her lifelong commitment to history and preservation that has left a lasting impact on Venice, Florida, and beyond. Her work ensures that future generations have access to well-documented historical narratives.
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Korwek’s latest publication, Building of the Intracoastal Waterway Venice, Florida, is the first comprehensive historical study of the development of the waterway and its profound impact on the region.
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It provides historical context predating John Nolen’s city planning efforts.
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Her meticulous research fills gaps in historical knowledge and provides a detailed account of the political, economic, and engineering challenges involved in its construction.
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Korwek’s dedication to historical accuracy and archival preservation has been widely praised by scholars, historians, and preservationists. The book weaves together previously unseen photographs, maps, and government documents, shedding new light on one of the most transformative projects in Venice’s history.
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Preserving the Story of the Intracoastal Waterway
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Groundbreaking Historical Research – The first thorough study of the controversial planning and construction of the Venice portion of the Intracoastal Waterway.
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Archival Preservation – Collected and curated historical photographs, construction plans, and government records to present an accurate and detailed narrative.
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Clarity Amidst Misinformation – Addressed long-standing misconceptions by compiling primary sources and expert analyses.
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Community Impact – Ensured that Venice’s maritime history is accessible to the public, enriching both local historical understanding and future preservation efforts.
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Dorothy Korwek’s dedication to historical accuracy and archival preservation has been widely praised by scholars, historians, and preservationists. The book weaves together previously unseen photographs, maps, and government documents, shedding new light on one of the most transformative projects in Venice’s history.
“Dorothy Korwek has provided the first research of its kind on this pivotal moment in Venice’s history,” said Kara Morgan, CEO of Venice MainStreet Inc. “Her work is an outstanding achievement that enhances our understanding of how the waterway shaped the city.”
Historical Research Award
Recognizes scholarly research and publication efforts that increase knowledge of Sarasota County’s past, ensuring that historical narratives are well-documented and accessible to the public.
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Dr. Janet Snyder Matthews has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Sarasota County Heritage Historical Research Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to documenting, preserving, and interpreting Sarasota’s rich history.
​Dr. Matthews’ career spans decades of historical research, authorship, and advocacy, making her one of the most influential historians in Sarasota’s history. Her extensive work has uncovered long-forgotten historical narratives, shaped public understanding of Sarasota’s heritage, and influenced historic preservation efforts at local, state, and national levels.
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A Legacy of Historical Research and Preservation
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Pioneering Historic Research – Conducted groundbreaking studies on Sarasota’s early settlers, Native American relations, and post-Civil War history.
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Published Author & Scholar – Authored numerous books, scholarly articles, and historical reports, including Edge of Wilderness: A Settlement History of Manatee River and Sarasota Bay and Sarasota: Journey to Centennial.
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National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) Advocate – Led the first NRHP nomination in Sarasota County, securing historic recognition for The Oaks (now Historic Spanish Point).
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State and Federal Leadership – Served as Florida’s Director of Historic Resources and Associate Director of Cultural Resources for the National Park Service, overseeing national preservation policies.
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Educational and Public Engagement – Hosted TV and radio programs, appeared in PBS documentaries, and lectured on Florida history and preservation strategies.
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Current Role at Ringling College of Art and Design – Continues to serve as Historical Research Advisor, focusing on the legacy of John Ringling and the Ringling School of Art.
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Shaping Sarasota’s Historical Narrative
Dr. Janet Snyder Matthews ’ meticulous archival research, field studies, and storytelling have played a critical role in shaping how Sarasota’s history is understood today. Her work illuminates overlooked histories, from early Native American diplomacy to Sarasota’s African American pioneers, ensuring that historical narratives are inclusive and well-documented.
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Her impact extends beyond Sarasota, as her expertise has influenced statewide and national historic preservation efforts, helping to protect and promote cultural landmarks across Florida and the United States.
Andrea Knies and Mimi Cirbusova of Compass Rose History Experiences.
2024 HERITAGE AWARDS
The 2024 Heritage Award Ceremony took place in March at the beautiful Sarasota Museum of Art. Andrea Knies and Mimi Cirbusova of Compass Rose History Experiences were this year's hosts.
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The Heritage Awards program was originally developed in 2014 by the HPCOSC and is currently managed by the SAHP, to recognize individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the preservation and understanding of Sarasota County’s historical resources. These activities are important to lend public support to governmental and citizen-based efforts that preserve our common past so future generations can enjoy what is so unique and beautiful about Sarasota County.
Congratulations 2024 Award Recipients!
The Heritage Awards committee is comprised of professionals in the fields of architecture, historic preservation, real estate development, archaeology, history and collections management who deliberated over the awards submissions before making their final selections.
Gregory A. and Eleana Najmy Hall Adaptive Use and Historic Preservation Award
Vickie Oldham and Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC) Preservation of the Leonard Reid House: In recognition of their extraordinary efforts to preserve the home of one of Sarasota’s early leaders of the city’s African American community, and repurpose the family’s home as an arts, culture and history center in Newtown that celebrates Black life and history. The Committee and awardees also wish to recognize the financial and logistical support the Awardees received from Stevie Freeman-Montes, City Manager Marlon Brown, and the Sarasota City Commissioners. Preservation of the Leonard Reid House. It is an outstanding example of the successful result of a collaborative effort with the City of Sarasota to make their vision a reality.
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Florida Studio Theater Preservation and Adaptive Reuse of the Sarasota’s Woman’s Club and Gompertz Theater. In recognition of FST’s extraordinary efforts to incorporate these historic structures into its campus, and repurpose them with sensitive alterations, as it has grown over the past 50 years into one the community’s most important arts and cultural institutions.
The Lillian Burns Individual Achievement Award
Frank Cassell, PhD: In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the history and preservation movement in Sarasota County, in the areas of scholarly research and publications, and for his tireless devotion to community service with your leadership of the Sarasota County Centennial Committee, the History and Preservation Coalition of Sarasota County and the Friends of the Sarasota County History Center, among many others.
Dorothy Korwek: In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the history and preservation movement in Sarasota County, including her efforts to preserve and maintain the Triangle Inn building and the Lord-Higel House; obtain historic a historic designation for the Triangle Inn; her compilation and publication of numerous books and pamphlets documenting the history and culture of Venice; and her tireless community service.
Archaeological Conservancy Award
Marion Almy: In recognition of her outstanding efforts to preserve and document prehistoric sites in Sarasota County and the Tampa Bay region; her decades of effective advocacy for archeological conservation and historic preservation in Florida; and her effectiveness in advancing archeological preservation with national, local and state government agencies, including the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Division of Historical Resources.
Historical Research Award
Deborah Walk: In recognition of her outstanding contributions to historic research and archival preservation of our cultural past, including her research into the history of the Crocker Church for the Historical Society of Sarasota County; research for the Church of the Redeemer, and the Founders Garden Club; and for her work as an archivist, researcher, and author.
Organizational Achievement Award
Presented to a Sarasota County historical or preservation organization for outstanding success in historical preservation, historical education, and/or support of historical research. The awards committee welcomes nominations of organizations that have successfully completed a project or a series of projects that have had a significant impact on preserving and understanding Sarasota County’s history.
Venice Heritage, Inc.: In recognition of its efforts to advance historic preservation, education, research, and community engagement in Venice. It is curator of two of the community’s most important historical structures—the Lord-Higel House and the Triangle Inn (now the Venice Museum). It has also published books documenting the historical and cultural fabric of the city and continues to have, strong impact on raising community awareness of Venice’s past.
