We’re honored to welcome Donovan Rypkema for this year’s Hopemont Lecture. As principal of PlaceEconomics, a Washington, D.C.-based real estate and economic development consulting firm, Rypkema has spent his career at the intersection of historic preservation and economics, and he’s widely regarded as one of the nation's leading voices on the economic case for saving historic places. 

Historic preservation is rightly celebrated for the history, architecture, and character it protects. But historic places are also an important part of our housing supply and local economy. Drawing on research from communities across the country, Rypkema will explore the measurable impact of historic preservation on affordable housing, jobs, local businesses, and tax revenues. His data-driven look will show how the places we already have can help communities meet today’s housing and economic challenges and build a stronger, more resilient future.

The 2026 Hopemont Lecture is free and open to the public. RSVPs required.