Karen Lang Kummer
Champaign
Under Karen Lang Kummer’s leadership over the past two decades, the Preservation and Conservation Association of Champaign County (PACA) has orchestrated funding for community and University of Illinois architectural surveys. An annual awards program and Heritage Grant have been established, along with numerous educational programs from architectural tours to hands-on restoration workshops. A 5,000-square-foot warehouse of salvaged architectural elements is staffed by PACA volunteers who have assisted countless property owners with their restoration projects. PACA also has stabilized a Civil War-era mansion, which is now for sale.