Claire Long Named Executive Director of the Architectural Heritage Center

PORTLAND, Ore. – August 19th, 2026 - The Architectural Heritage Center (AHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Claire Long as Executive Director. In this role, Long will lead AHC's work to preserve and celebrate the region's architectural heritage through education, advocacy, public programming, and community engagement.

Long brings a strong commitment to historic preservation, thoughtful leadership, and community collaboration to the position. Before joining AHC, Long served as the Arts and Culture Caucus Coordinator for the Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon. She also served as the Executive Director for the Architecture Foundation of Oregon and was selected as a 2017 Next Generation Museum Leadership fellow with The Getty. As Executive Director, she will oversee AHC's strategic direction, operations, fundraising, partnerships, and educational initiatives while working closely with its staff, board, members, volunteers, and supporters.

"I am honored to serve as Executive Director of the Architectural Heritage Center," said Long. "The AHC is not simply preserving buildings; we are preserving Portland’s identity and helping shape its future. Preservation is part of the solution for many of the challenges facing our communities, and I’m thrilled to lead the organization forward."

Under Long's leadership, AHC will continue to strengthen its preservation advocacy, broaden community participation, and offer compelling programs that deepen public understanding of the region’s-built environment. “Adaptive reuse and preservation go hand in hand. We have so many resources to help establish a new paradigm for how this city develops the built environment and it is an incredible opportunity for leadership at all levels.”

"Claire brings the vision, energy, and collaborative spirit needed to guide AHC into its next chapter," said John Liu, chair of AHC's Board of Directors. "We are delighted to welcome her as Executive Director and look forward to working together to advance the organization's mission."

Long began her role on August 1st.

About the Architectural Heritage Center

The Architectural Heritage Center is dedicated to preserving and promoting understanding of the region's architectural heritage. Through exhibits, tours, lectures, advocacy, and educational programs, AHC connects people with the buildings, neighborhoods, and cultural stories that shape their communities. Learn more at visitahc.org