Governor Mike DeWine recently announced the appointment of Diana Welling as Ohio’s State Historic Preservation Officer. “Ohio has so many treasured historic places that are part of what makes Ohio the heart of it all,” DeWine said. The Governor’s endorsement underscores the significance of Ohio’s rich historical tapestry, including recent milestones like the designation of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Role and Responsibilities
A State Historic Preservation Officer is a key figure in each of the 59 states, territories, and the District of Columbia. Appointed by the chief elected official, usually the governor, this individual is tasked with overseeing preservation offices and programs in line with the National Historic Preservation Act. Diana Welling steps into the role following the retirement of Burt Logan, a former Executive Director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection.
A Seamless Transition
Megan Wood, Logan’s successor and current Executive Director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection, also promoted Welling to Director of the State Historic Preservation Office, effective October 9. “Diana was selected to lead the Preservation Office after an extensive national search,” Wood stated. Her seven years of positive leadership at the Ohio History Connection are expected to benefit Ohioans as she takes on her new responsibilities.
A Closer Look at the State Historic Preservation Office
The State Historic Preservation Office serves as Ohio’s official agency for historic preservation. It plays a multifaceted role, from identifying historic places in Ohio and nominating properties to the National Register of Historic Places, to consulting on the conservation of older buildings and sites. The office also offers educational programs, publications, and works with property owners to help them qualify for federal and state tax credits for substantial rehabilitation projects.
Meet Diana Welling: A Steward of Ohio’s Heritage
Prior to her appointment, Welling served as the Department Head and Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer since 2016. With over 20 years of experience in historic preservation in Ohio, she has collaborated with state and federal agencies, as well as residents, to advocate for the preservation of significant cultural resources. Before joining the Ohio History Connection, Welling was an Architectural Historian and Project Manager for Lawhon & Associates, Inc. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a Master’s of Heritage Preservation from Georgia State University. A Columbus native, Welling resides in Westerville with her family.
