Eileen Javers remembers the moment she knew Chestnut Hill was home. She and her husband, Ron, were young, expecting their first child, and searching for a place to settle down. They had driven up Germantown Avenue from Germantown, where they were renting an apartment, past shops, and stone houses, when they reached Graver’s Lane. Something about the village-like charm of the neighborhood just felt right. “This is it,” she told Ron.

That moment set the course for a life deeply embedded in the fabric of Chestnut Hill. Through a career that took her across the country and overseas—navigating high-stakes corporate boardrooms, historic preservation efforts, and community advocacy—Javers has remained committed to strengthening the places she cares about. Whether by preserving architecture, cultural landmarks, archives and ephemera, protecting green spaces, or fostering deeper connections within her community, her work has helped shape and safeguard the area’s identity.

Stepping down from her role as Board President of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy after eight years of leadership, Javers remains on the Board and Executive Committee. As she transitions into this new chapter, she reflects on what brought her here and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

A Life of Listening and Leading

Javers’ professional life was shaped by an instinct to listen first, a skill that proved essential in corporate strategy and community advocacy. Trained in psychology and counseling, she spent much of her career working with individuals in transition—helping women re-enter the workforce, guiding executives through career shifts, and designing talent management programs across 52 countries.

Early in her career, she worked at Options for Women, a groundbreaking Chestnut Hill-based organization dedicated to helping women transition back into the workforce after stepping away, often to raise children. At a time when women’s careers were still treated as secondary to family obligations, Options for Women provided job search assistance, career counseling, and resume preparation, helping ease the transition for those with gaps in their employment history. Though the employment landscape has changed, the challenges of returning to work after extended leave remain.

“People’s careers, like communities, evolve,” Javers says. “You have to be willing to handle change. And the way to do that is by listening, understanding where people are coming from, and working with what’s in front of you.”

That same approach defined her leadership at the Conservancy. When she joined the board in 2015, the organization was facing financial struggles. Then-Executive Director Lori Salganicoff asked board members to contribute $250 to hire a part-time development staffer. Javers remembers the moment clearly: “I knew it was going to work. And it did. Almost overnight, we started to build the professional structure we needed to grow.”

Under her tenure, the Conservancy expanded its capacity, developed a full-time team, and launched signature programs that brought history, preservation, and conservation work to the forefront of community life.

Building Something Bigger: The Power of Small Ideas

For Javers, leadership has never been about grand pronouncements but recognizing moments when something small could become something bigger.

She recalls sitting in a Conservancy meeting with board member Dan Macey, tossing ideas about making historic preservation more engaging. The conversation turned to cities lighting up buildings and the Conservancy’s archives. What if they could project archival images onto storefronts and buildings? What if they could bring history to life on the streets?

“We looked at each other and said, ‘Go,’” Javers says.

That simple idea became Night of Lights, now one of the Conservancy’s most celebrated events—an immersive streetscape exhibition that draws thousands of people each fall to experience the Wissahickon watershed’s past through projected photographs, storytelling, and digital history.

She also pushed for greater recognition of the Italian artisans who helped build Chestnut Hill’s iconic stone houses. “The Conservancy had long celebrated the families who developed these homes, but I wanted to celebrate the people who actually built them.” That initiative led to walking tours, community events at the Venetian Club, and a deeper appreciation for the craft and labor that shaped the neighborhood.

Shirley Hanson, co-founder of the Chestnut Hill Historical Society—now the Chestnut Hill Conservancy—who first encouraged Javers to join the Conservancy’s board, recalls the impact of her leadership. “Eileen leads with an approach that is both thoughtful and inclusive. She doesn’t harden the stance of opposing sides but instead finds a path to ease division. As President, she helped the Conservancy navigate often tough opposition and move toward more positive outcomes.” 

A Legacy of Connection

Javers’ leadership has been as much about relationships as it has been about preservation. She helped steer the Conservancy toward greater inclusiveness, ensuring its mission resonated beyond its traditional base. “We have to reach people where they are—whether it’s through partnerships with businesses, young professionals, or communities we haven’t engaged before.”

Karren DeSeve, a longtime friend, first met Eileen in the early 1970s. Their introduction came at a dinner party hosted by their real estate agent, who had sold both couples their homes on Gravers Lane. The moment turned memorable when their husbands arrived wearing nearly identical blue velour bell-bottom suits with red paisley lining. “That started our long friendship with a laugh,” DeSeve recalls.

Beyond their personal connection, DeSeve, also a former Conservancy Board Member, has witnessed Eileen’s deep and lasting commitment to the area. “For more than 25 years, Eileen has been one of the most steadfast advocates for preservation in Chestnut Hill. She is always ready to volunteer her time and lend a strong voice to any mission on behalf of the community.”

Looking ahead, Javers is excited about the new generation of leadership stepping in. “The Conservancy is in incredibly good hands,” she says. “We have such talented people, and what’s most exciting is seeing younger board members bring fresh energy while still holding on to what makes this place special.”

Javers remains committed to the work even as she transitioned out of the President’s seat in January. “You do this because you love it, because you believe in it. And because other people before you did the same.”
She pauses for a moment, thinking about the winding road that led her back to Chestnut Hill—through corporate boardrooms, her husband’s career in journalism, and all of it, Chestnut Hill remained the place she and Ron always returned to.

As she gathered her things at the end of our conversation, she shared something that had repeatedly stayed with her over the years, something she had heard from area newcomers.

A Lifelong Appreciation for Preservation and Community

Bill and his partner, Jeff Dugan, moved to Chestnut Hill in 2018, drawn by its rich history, stunning architecture, and strong sense of community. “Chestnut Hill is unique in that it’s a walkable, engaging neighborhood where people genuinely connect,” Bill shares. “Germantown Avenue, with its historic charm and vibrant energy, really captures what makes this place special.”

Bill’s passion for preservation and conservation was shaped early in life. Growing up near Washington, D.C., he witnessed firsthand how urban renewal could either erase a community’s character or strengthen it through collective action. “I saw the stark contrast between areas like Southwest Washington, where everything was torn down in the name of progress, and neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Georgetown, where engaged residents came together to protect their architectural and cultural heritage,” he explains. “That experience taught me two things: how vulnerable a community can be if it’s taken for granted—and how powerful it can be when people work together to protect it.”

This perspective aligns deeply with the Conservancy’s mission. “Chestnut Hill and the surrounding communities are extraordinary places, but they’re not immune to the pressures of change,” Bill notes. “The key is ensuring that people understand their role in shaping what happens next.”

Professional Background and Alignment with the Conservancy

As SEPTA’s Chief Communications Officer, Bill leads public engagement efforts for one of the nation’s largest transit systems. His career has centered on communications, public relations, and education.
“Public transportation is about connecting people and communities—just as the Conservancy connects people to history, conservation, and preservation,” Bill explains. “Both also play a role in sustaining our community and environment.”

Bill’s previous work with the Montrose Park Historic District Association in New Jersey further cemented his dedication to preservation. His leadership was instrumental in securing State and National Historic District designations and advocating for local preservation policies.

Building on a Strong Foundation

As he steps into the role of Board President, Bill is keenly aware of the incredible work of his predecessors, particularly Eileen Javers, who served as President for the past eight years. Under her leadership, the Conservancy expanded its impact, strengthened its programs, and deepened its commitment to both preservation and conservation.

“Eileen has laid an incredible foundation for the Conservancy, and I’m grateful for her continued guidance as she remains on the board and serves on the Executive Committee,” Bill shares. “Her leadership has helped shape this organization into what it is today, and I’m honored to build on that legacy.”

Bill is also enthusiastic about working with the entire Board, whose dedication and expertise are vital to the Conservancy’s success. In addition to the Board, Bill is eager to collaborate with the Conservancy’s staff and new Executive Director, David Gest. “David brings tremendous expertise and vision to the Conservancy at an important moment,” he says. “I’m looking forward to working with him and the staff to ensure we continue to be a strong, dynamic organization that serves the Wissahickon watershed.”

Balancing Preservation, Conservation, and Responsible Growth

One of the greatest challenges and opportunities in a community like Chestnut Hill is finding harmony between preservation and conservation. Bill acknowledges that, at times, these efforts may seem at odds—balancing the protection of historic structures with environmental sustainability can be a delicate task. “We don’t prioritize one over the other,” he notes. “Instead, our goal is to strike a thoughtful balance, ensuring that our built and natural environments remain protected for future generations.”

This approach extends to development, where the Conservancy seeks to work collaboratively with stakeholders to promote sensitive growth. “We’re not against development,” Bill clarifies. “What we advocate for is responsible development—one that respects the character of Chestnut Hill and ensures that what makes this community special isn’t lost in the process.”

Education as a Key to Advocacy

One of Bill’s top priorities as Board President is expanding education—potentially including programs on easements and preservation tools and the broader landscape of local decision-making. “Many people care deeply about preservation and conservation, but they don’t always understand the mechanisms that shape what happens in their neighborhood,” he says.

This includes understanding zoning laws, variances, and by-right development, which dictate what can and cannot be built without requiring special approvals. “There’s often frustration when people feel blindsided by new development, but the reality is that some projects move forward because they fit within existing regulations,” he explains. “An informed community is a more empowered community—one that knows when and how to engage to affect a meaningful impact.”

Bill envisions the Conservancy serving as a resource for residents who want to understand these issues better and become more engaged in shaping the future of Chestnut Hill and the surrounding watershed. “Our role isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about helping the community advocate for a future that honors what makes this place special.”

Looking Ahead

As Bill steps into his role as Board President, he is excited about the Conservancy’s future and the opportunities ahead. He looks forward to strengthening partnerships within the Wissahickon watershed and beyond, ensuring that the organization continues to thrive as a steward of history, conservation, and community engagement.

“Our hope is to engage an even broader part of the community in these conversations,” Bill shares. “The Conservancy should be seen as a welcoming place—somewhere people can turn to for information, support, and inspiration.”

With Bill’s leadership, the Conservancy is poised to expand its impact, ensuring that the historic and natural treasures of Chestnut Hill and the surrounding communities in the Wissahickon watershed remain protected, celebrated, and accessible for generations to come.

PHILADELPHIA—On Jan. 9, members of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy braved frigid temperatures to gather at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy’s Wissahickon Inn Chapel for the organization’s annual membership meeting. The hybrid event, which combined in-person and virtual attendance, marked a period of transition and growth. It featured leadership updates, the election of new board directors, and a look back at a successful 2024.

Reviewing 2024 highlights and electing new leadership

The membership voted to elect and re-elect directors to the Conservancy’s board. Newly elected directors include Will Bishop, Ashley Douglas, James McNabb, Daniel Preston, and James Rice. Re-elected directors include Tim Greenwood, Jean McCoubrey, and Larry Salva. Each director brings a unique background and expertise to the board, united by their passion for preserving and sustaining Chestnut Hill’s rich heritage.

Ashley Douglas, a graphic and interactive designer, brings decades of experience in branding, web design, and art. She is deeply passionate about Chestnut Hill’s unique character, architecture, and gardens. She contributes to its preservation through her involvement with institutions such as the Friends of the Wissahickon and the Woodmere Art Museum.

James McNabb, an accomplished artist and woodworker, is known for his intricate cityscape-inspired wood sculptures. As vice president of Friends of Pastorius Park and co-chair of the Chestnut Hill Tree Tenders, he combines his artistic talents with a commitment to fostering a greener, more sustainable community.

Daniel Preston, a creative professional specializing in visual communication, leads fundraising campaigns and branding initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania. His expertise in storytelling, digital media, and community engagement enhances the Conservancy’s ability to connect with its audience.

James Rice, a distinguished architect with over 40 years of experience, specializes in design, preservation, and adaptive reuse projects. His transformative contributions to sustainable design and urban planning and his work reflect a lifelong dedication to enhancing communities through thoughtful architecture.

In addition, the membership elected the 2025 Historic District Advisory Committee (HDAC), which includes returning members Patricia Cove, Richard Bartholomew, Shirley Hanson, Matt Millan, Miles Orvell, William O’Keefe, Deborah Popky, and Randy Williams. James Rice joined as a new member, strengthening the group’s commitment to supporting the Conservancy’s preservation efforts.

Celebrating leadership transitions
Outgoing board president Eileen Javers, who will remain on the board, opened the evening with heartfelt remarks reflecting on her eight years of service as president and more than a decade of contributions to the Conservancy. She highlighted key accomplishments during her tenure and acknowledged the passing of community members, including former board member Charlie Dilks, who was honored at the 2024 Spring Gala for his dedication to environmental conservation. A moment of silence was held for all those lost, including former President Jimmy Carter, as the meeting coincided with his National Day of Mourning.

New executive director David Gest, officially on his fourth day on the job, was formally introduced during the meeting. Gest shared his vision for the Conservancy’s future in a presentation titled “Building on a Strong Foundation and Growing Sustainably.” David has dedicated his career to causes that align closely with the Conservancy’s mission. With decades of experience in city planning, law, nonprofit leadership, historic preservation, and community advocacy, Gest combines a deep respect for the past with a compelling vision for the future. Previously, he served as chief operating officer of Mural Arts Philadelphia, practiced law as a partner at Ballard Spahr LLP, and founded SquareSide, a consulting firm specializing in land use and city planning. Gest holds a J.D. from Columbia University, a Master of City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania, and a B.A. in Architecture from Yale University.

Financial overview and staff updates
First Vice President Bill Webster provided a brief financial overview, noting that revenues and expenses in 2024 were balanced at approximately $650,000.

Staff members also shared updates on the past year and plans for 2025. Curator and Archivist Alex Bartlett highlighted the addition of more than 5,000 new items to the Conservancy’s archives, now totaling over 52,000 pieces. Programs and Communications Manager Chrissy Clawson recapped the 21 public programs hosted in 2024, including the Night of Lights and Preservation Party, which engaged the community and drew over 625 volunteer hours. The Conservancy implemented new Landscape Conservation Software to monitor its 52 eased properties more efficiently. Conservation and Easements Manager Krista Gebbia also engaged in peer discussions and policy reviews to enhance stewardship practices. Development Manager Ashley Maass shared plans to diversify funding streams and expand partnerships in the coming year.

Looking ahead
Gest closed the meeting by reaffirming the Conservancy’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the historic, architectural, and natural resources of Chestnut Hill and the surrounding Wissahickon watershed.

For more details about the Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s leadership, visit chconservancy.org/board.