Mary Beth Reed
For 38 years, Mary Beth Reed has been a visionary leader in preservation. Reed managed historic preservation consulting throughout the state as the president of New South Associates from 2006-2023. Under her guidance, the firm achieved unprecedented success, receiving numerous awards and accolades for their work. Ms. Reed’s contributions extend beyond awards; she shaped New South Associates’ trajectory, expanding its focus from archaeology to diverse historic preservation domains. Her leadership led to the creation of influential guidelines for, among other topics, mid-century modern architecture, leaving a lasting impact nationwide. Her commitment to community preservation is equally commendable, recognized by Secretary of State Cathy Cox as one of the Outstanding Women in Historic Preservation in Georgia. As president of the Stone Mountain Historical Society, Ms. Reed spearheaded initiatives preserving the city’s history. Her legacy encompasses not only professional achievements but a profound dedication to preserving cultural heritage and fostering community engagement. Mary Beth Reed epitomizes excellence, making her nomination a testament to a lifetime devoted to the preservation and celebration of history.
The Mary Gregory Jewett Award for distinguished service in the field of preservation is named for the Trust’s first executive director and is the Trust’s top honor given to an individual. This award is reserved to recognize those whose dedication and service to the field of historic preservation in the state of Georgia is extraordinary.