The Inaugural Paint the Town Raises Funds for the Preservation Society of Nashville

Fashionable historians, preservationists and friends gathered for the inaugural Paint the Town event supporting the newly formed Preservation Society of Nashville. The setting of the evening was, appropriately, the newly reimagined Neuhoff District. As guests meandered through what was once a meatpacking plant, they learned about the work that went into the space, which has revitalized the riverbank. Guests floated between the indoor and al fresco spaces as hors d’oeuvres passed through the rooms. Throughout the Neuhoff property, plein-air painters from The Chestnut Group awed guests with their talent. The paintings created during cocktail hour later became the focus of a spirited live auction.

After guests had taken a moment to explore their surroundings, founders Kelleigh Bannen and Colson Horton took the stage for remarks. Colson noted that the funds raised during the evening would support “the Preservation Society of Nashville’s ongoing efforts to protect and celebrate our city’s unique character.” The founders then shared two special announcements. The first was that David Greider had been named the Preservation Society of Nashville’s first executive director. An industry veteran, David brings more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the role. He held leadership positions at the Center for Nonprofit Management, Nashville Health Care Council and Digital Medicine Society before founding Orange Oak Nonprofit Management in 2023. There, he has helped organizations innovate and grow, especially during times of change.

The second, and equally exciting, announcement was the creation of the Sondra Morris Impact Award, which “will honor individuals who made extraordinary contributions to national preservation efforts.” The award’s namesake, Sondra Morris, is known as a staunch supporter of preservation. She has been an integral part of the revitalization of Franklin and Williamson County, and this award will continue her legacy for years to come.