Contact: Julian Jackson, Executive Director
Email: jjackson@pullmanil.org
Phone: 312.933.6702
CHICAGO (September 28, 2023) – Historic Pullman Foundation (HPF) has announced that Executive Director Julian Jackson will be stepping down from his position effective Dec. 31, 2023. The move is a planned transition aiming to continue the organization’s growth and impact as the philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park (PNHP).
“Over the past three years, Julian’s leadership has been instrumental in HPF’s progression from a volunteer organization to a growing, professionally staffed nonprofit supporting the first national park in Chicago,” said HPF Board President Maria P. Hibbs. “Stronger partnerships, expanded communications and fundraising, and new programming have increased Pullman’s visibility and attracted growing numbers of visitors to the historic district.”
“Pullman National Historical Park has benefited greatly from Julian’s leadership of the park’s official friends group and philanthropic partner,” said PNHP Superintendent Teri Gage. “He has led HPF through a period of dramatic change, managed the grand opening of our new visitor center, and launched the very successful Pullman Railroad Days, which has now evolved into an annual event.”
An expert in creating engaging visitor experiences in the museum and exhibition field, Jackson will pursue career opportunities in that arena. Jackson joined HPF in 2020 following positions with the Museum of Broadcast Communication, Adler Planetarium and Milwaukee Public Museum.
“It has been an honor to be the Executive Director of the Historic Pullman Foundation during this important time in the organization’s evolution. I’m proud of the work we’ve done together and continue to be very excited about HPF’s future prospects,” said Jackson. “While my work passions are leading me in a slightly different direction, I plan to continue to vigorously support Pullman and the Foundation.”
“Though we will miss Julian’s steady leadership, we support his desire to follow his heart in creating spaces and experiences that make ideas come to life,” said Hibbs.
The Board is convening a search committee to identify an Executive Director and will post the position in October.
“The Board is pleased that Julian will remain onboard through the end of the year and has offered to assist HPF as a consultant beyond that to ensure an orderly transition. This change will be a strategic step in supporting Pullman’s growth as a cultural destination on Chicago’s South Side,” said Hibbs.
Added Gage, “It’s been a pleasure working with Julian and I really appreciate his approach to an orderly and strategic succession plan that will ensure a smooth transition into the next phase of growth and development for the organization.”
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Historic Pullman Foundation became the official philanthropic partner of Pullman National Historical Park in February 2021. Since 1973, we have created opportunities for all people to experience and understand the continuing American story that is Pullman. Visit us at www.pullmanil.org.
